Ireland lost on penalties after a 2-2 draw as World Cup hopes ended in Prague

The Republic of Ireland’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup came to a painful end after a penalty shoot-out defeat to Czechia following a dramatic 2-2 draw in Prague.

Ireland looked to be in control early on after building a two-goal lead, but Czechia fought back to force extra time before securing a 4-3 victory on penalties at the Fortuna Arena.

The visitors made a strong start and went ahead in the 20th minute when Troy Parrott converted from the penalty spot. Moments later, their advantage doubled when Matej Kovar turned the ball into his own net, leaving Ireland firmly in command of the match.

However, the momentum began to shift soon after. Ryan Manning conceded a penalty following a foul on Ladislav Krejci, and Patrik Schick made no mistake from the spot to reduce the deficit.

Ireland continued to create chances but was denied by the woodwork on multiple occasions. Nathan Collins saw an effort strike the crossbar, while Jayson Molumby later hit the post as the visitors pushed for a third goal that could have secured their progression.

Czechia gradually grew back into the contest and found their equaliser late in the match. In the 87th minute, Krejci headed home to level the score and send the game into extra time.

Neither side was able to find a decisive goal during the additional period. Tomas Soucek had a notable opportunity but sent his effort over the crossbar, leaving the tie to be decided by penalties.

The shoot-out began with promise for Ireland as goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher made an early save. However, the advantage slipped away when Finn Azaz and Alan Browne both failed to convert their attempts.

Kovar, who had earlier endured the misfortune of scoring an own goal, played a decisive role in the shoot-out. He made key saves to deny Ireland and helped his side regain control.

Jan Kliment then stepped up to score the winning penalty, sealing Czechia’s victory and ending Ireland’s qualification hopes.

The result marks a bitter disappointment for Ireland, who had been within reach of progressing after their strong start in the match.

For Czechia, the victory keeps their campaign alive as they advance to face Denmark in the next round of the play-offs.

Elsewhere in the play-offs, Wales were also eliminated after losing on penalties to Bosnia-Herzegovina, while Northern Ireland were beaten 2-0 by Italy.

Other results saw Kosovo complete a comeback win against Slovakia, Sweden defeat Ukraine, and Poland overcome Albania. Denmark recorded a convincing win over North Macedonia to set up their next match against Czechia.

In Prague, however, the focus remained on Ireland’s missed opportunity. After taking a two-goal lead and creating further chances, they were unable to close out the game, allowing Czechia back into the contest.

The penalty shoot-out ultimately decided the outcome, with missed attempts proving costly as Ireland’s World Cup journey came to an abrupt end.