Original title
World Cup qualifiers: Ireland to face Czech Republic in first playoff
Summary
Republic of Ireland will face the Czech Republic in the World Cup qualifiers on Thursday, March 26, in a bid to reach the World Cup for the first time since 2002. The winner will advance to a playoff decider on Tuesday, March 31, against Denmark or North Macedonia, for a place in the 2026 World Cup in the USA.
Key facts
- Ireland, after beating Iran over two legs to reach the 2022 World Cup in Japan and South Korea, must win away to the Czech Republic to proceed to the playoff decider.
- The playoff decider is scheduled for Tuesday, March 31, against Denmark or North Macedonia.
- Home advantage is awarded to Ireland if they beat the Czech Republic.
- The Czech Republic are competing for a place in the finals in North America next summer.
Should Ireland win, they will advance to the playoff decider against Denmark or North Macedonia for a spot at the 2026 World Cup in the USA.
Recent context
The Danes were beaten late on by Scotland at Hampden Park in their last group game and are favored to beat North Macedonia. Ireland are considered underdogs in Prague, though they recently achieved back-to-back wins over Portugal and Hungary, with significant contributions from Cork players Caoimhhín Kelleher, Chiedozie Ogbene, Adam Idah, and Jake O'Brien.
Related note
Wales will face Bosnia and Herzegovina in the World Cup qualifying playoff semi-finals in March. If Wales win, they will face Italy or Northern Ireland for a place at the finals.
Авторское резюме: Ирландия борется за место на ЧМ-2026 через плей-аут после встречи с Чехией, при этом путь к финалу проходит через переходные стадии и потенциальные противостояния с Denmark или North Macedonia, с упором на неожиданные победы и вклад игроков из Корка.
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