Szmodics taken to Czech hospital after collision
Republic of Ireland midfielder Sammie Szmodics spent Thursday night in hospital as a result of the collision with Czech Republic defender Stephan Chaloupek that left him unconscious. The incident occurred late in extra time, moments after the Derby County midfielder had come on as a substitute. "Sammie was unconscious on the ground, but we have good doctors and they took care of him on the grass," said Republic of Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson after the match.
"He's back to consciousness. He's just being tested, checked and monitored and he will hopefully fly back to Ireland on Friday. " The Republic of Ireland had led 2-0 but lost on penalties after a late Czech Republic equaliser forced extra time.
Halgrimsson said in his post-match news conference that Szmodics had been brought on specifically for the shoot-out. "We had a list prepared. Sammie was one of six names," he added.
'Growth' for Republic of Ireland despite Prague pain Thanks to a penalty from Troy Parrott and an own goal from Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar, the Republic of Ireland led in Prague after 23 minutes. The home side got back into the game thanks to their own spot kick from Patrik Schick not long after and forced extra-time with four minutes remaining in the match through captain Ladislav Krejci. In the shoot-out, the Irish took an advantage after Caoimhin Kelleher saved from Mojmir Chytil but Kovar made amends for his earlier mistakes by denying Finn Azaz and Alan Browne from 12 yards.
Czech Republic now go on to face Denmark for a place in the World Cup finals while Halgrimsson's side welcome North Macedonia to Dublin on Tuesday for a friendly.