Czech Republic showcased remarkable character and composure to overturn a two-goal deficit and defeat Ireland on penalties in a dramatic FIFA World Cup play-off semi-final. It was a night of high emotion and shifting momentum, ultimately decided by the narrowest of margins.

The hosts could hardly have asked for a better start. By the 23rd minute, Ireland were 2-0 up, with Troy Parrott calmly converting from the penalty spot before an unfortunate own goal from Matej Kovar doubled their advantage. At that stage, Stephen Kenny’s side looked firmly in control.

But Czech Republic refused to fold. Just before half-time, Patrik Schick pulled one back from the spot, shifting the momentum and giving the visitors renewed belief heading into the break.

The second half became a test of nerve. Ireland dropped deeper, attempting to protect their lead, while Czech Republic increased the pressure with every passing minute. Their persistence paid off late on, as Ladislav Krejci rose to head home in the 86th minute, forcing extra time and stunning the home crowd.

Seamus Coleman, leading by example, gave everything on the pitch before being substituted early in extra time.

With no further goals in the additional 30 minutes, the tie went to penalties. In the shootout, Czech Republic held their nerve to edge it 4-3, sealing a memorable comeback and booking their place in the play-off final.

FIFA World Cup 2026, Qualifiers

Czech Republic - Ireland 2:2 (1:2), shoot-out 4:3
Goals: Parrott, 19 (penalty) (0:1); Kovar M., 23 (own goal) (0:2); Schick, 27 (1:2); Krejčí L. II., 86 (2:2)

Czech Republic: Kovar M.; Holeš (Chaloupek, 46); Hranáč; Coufal (Karabec, 83); Jurasek D. (Sadilek M., 83); Krejčí L. II.; Darida (Soucek, 46); Provod (Sadilek M., 83); Šulc P. (Kliment, 103); Schick; Chorý (Chytil, 73)
Substitution: Chaloupek (from 46); Soucek (from 46); Chytil (from 73); Sadilek M. (from 83); Karabec (from 83); Kliment (from 103)
Bench: Hornicek; Jedlicka; Vitík; Zeleny; Červ L.; Visinsky
Yellow Cards: Hranáč 90

Ireland: Kelleher; Coleman (Dunne Jimmy, 96); O'Shea D.; O´Brien; Collins N.; Manning (Browne Al., 68); Molumby (Szmodics, 115; Vale, 120); Taylor Ja. (Brady, 68); Ogbene (Idah, 96); Azaz; Parrott
Substitution: Browne Al. (from 68); Brady (from 68); Dunne Jimmy (from 96); Idah (from 96); Szmodics (from 115 till 120); Vale (from 120)
Bench: Keeley J.; Travers; Egan; Abankwah; Knight J.; Kenny J.
Yellow Cards: Taylor Ja. 21; Manning 25