After 120 minutes and a penalty shootout, the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup dream came to an end in Prague, with manager Heimir Hallgrimsson feeling “pained.”
Hot on the heels of their surprise last-gasp victory over Hungary in November, which sent them through to the play-offs, the mood was quite the opposite for the Irish as the hosts, the Czech Republic, fought back to force extra time on occasion and then conceded on spot-kicks.
The Republic of Ireland scored two excellent goals.
It was a night that promised a lot as the Republic of Ireland scored two excellent goals thanks to a Troy Parrott penalty and an own goal from Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar after 23 minutes.
However, the hosts were given a lifeline by a Patrik Schick penalty soon after, with captain Ladislav Krzyński heading in a goal four minutes from time to force extra time.
Hallgrimsson’s side might have been out of sight but for the post that denied Jason Molumby in the second period and Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar blocking a Parrott header.
The Irish had the advantage in the penalties when Caoimhin Kelleher saved from Mojmir Chytil, but Kovar then saved from Finn Azas and Alan Browne, before Jan Clement won for the hosts, who will now face Denmark on Tuesday for a World Cup place.
Hallgrimsson expressed his disappointment to reporters, stating, “I take pride in the performance as the players gave their utmost.”
“I thank the fans who backed the team despite the loss, but I know the players are hurting.”
