For head coach Hallgrimsson and his players, who were bidding for a first trip to the finals since 2002, it proved an agonising conclusion to a campaign which had blossomed late in the day. Alan Browne missed the crucial penalty (Adam Davy/PA)Asked to sum up his emotions, the Icelander said: “One word, just pain. I feel pain, I feel pride for the performance of the players. I feel gratitude towards the supporters who showed up and supported us the whole game, even after the loss. Czech boss Miroslav Koubek was delighted with the outcome of his first game in charge, but admitted there was room for improvement.

Source: The Herald March 27, 2026 06:26 UTC