The full gamut of emotions synonymous with do-or-die international football was on display as the Republic of Ireland's World Cup dream was left in ruins following a devastating penalty shootout defeat by the Czech Republic. The week started with feverish excitement as thousands of Irish fans - most of whom didn't have a ticket to the game - descended on Prague. Parrott stepped up again to give his side the lead from the spot before Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar's own goal stirred Irish dreams of a play-off final in Dublin. But from there, elation turned to frustration when Ryan Manning's foul on Czech skipper Ladislav Krejci enabled Patrik Schick to slot home a momentum-swinging penalty in a frantic first half. With the game on a knife-edge, the visitors went close to restoring a precious two-goal cushion through Jayson Molumby and Parrott before Krejci's 86th-minute header forced extra-time.

Source: BBC March 27, 2026 06:29 UTC