Czechia beat Republic of Ireland on penalties to keep World Cup dream alive after epic playoff encounter
Czechia were 2-0 down in Prague but roared back to take the game to penalty kicks where they prevailed to keep their World Cup dream alive.
Czechia beat the Republic of Ireland on penalty kicks amid incredible drama in Prague on Thursday, as they will now host Denmark in a World Cup playoff final for a spot in the tournament this summer. MORE — UEFA World Cup playoffs schedule | World Cup inter-confederation playoffs An epic playoff semifinal swung back and forth as Ireland went 2-0 up early through Troy Parrott's penalty kick and an own goal from goalkeeper Matej Kovar. But Patrik Schick pulled one back from the penalty spot in a frantic first half.
Ireland hit the post in the second half in a tense, even encounter and it looked like they would just get over the line. But Czechia captain Ladislav Krejci headed home late on in normal time to send the game to extra time and the teams could not be separated as the game went to penalty kicks. MORE — Ranking the World Cup kits Despite Caoimihn Kelleher denying Mojmir Chytil to give Ireland the advantage in the penalty shootout, Czechia prevailed after Finn Azaz and Alan Browne both had their attempts saved by Kovar.
Jan Kliment was the hero as he powered home the winning spot kick to spark wild scenes in Prague, as they will host Denmark on Tuesday knowing a win will book their spot at a first World Cup since 2006. Czechia vs Ireland score: 2-2 - Czechia beat Ireland 4-3 on penalty kicks Schick 27', Krejci 86'; Parrott 19', Kovar OG 23' Czechia vs Ireland live updates! Kliment powers home the penalty kick to win it!
Czechia have won it! Kliment smashes home the spot kick and the home fans go bonkers. Such a harsh way for Ireland to lose.
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