The Republic of Ireland's World Cup hopes come crashing down in Czechia

The Republic of Ireland faced Czechia on Thursday evening at the Fortuna Arena in Prague. The hosts found themselves 2-0 down after 23 minutes, and the Republic of Ireland were in a good position, going into the remaining 65 minutes of the match.

However, Ireland conceded a penalty, and Patrick Schick stepped up to bring his nation back into the game. He scored his penalty, and the last 60 minutes were bound to be exciting.

In the 86th minute, Ireland were still leading 2-1. But, Wolves' Ladislav Krejčí headed home at the near post, to bring his side level five minutes before full-time. It was a deflating equaliser from a Republic of Ireland point of view, but it was a huge confidence booster for the hosts.

The game was sent to extra-time, but with the game level after 120 minutes, penalties were set to decide who went through to the UEFA World Cup play-off finals.

As Mojmir Chytil stepped up to take his spot-kick, his nation trailed 3-2. He missed his penalty, handing Ireland the opportunity to go 4-2 up. Southampton's Finn Azaz stepped up to further strengthen the away team's advantage, but his penalty was missed as well. Czechia were handed a lifeline, and Patrick Schick made sure his team did not miss two penalties in a row.

Alan Browne took the following penalty, with the shootout score at 3-3. The 30-year-old missed his penalty, meaning Czechia could advance if they scored their next spot-kick.

Experienced forward Jan Kilment was taking the crucial penalty for Czechia, and he scored, crushing the Republic of Ireland's hopes of reaching the World Cup. The Czech Republic booked their spot in the World Cup play-off final against Denmark, with the winner going to the World Cup.

Ireland's road to the play-offs was incredible, with their most notable game being against Hungary away from home. A 96th-minute winner from Troy Parrott against Hungary, which sealed his hat-trick, also secured his nation three points in the World Cup qualifier group stages. The result meant Ireland had reached the play-offs in the last minute, replacing their opposition, Hungary.

Although the target of making the World Cup was not met by the Republic of Ireland, their World Cup qualifying run is one that they will be proud of.