After 120 minutes and a penalty shootout, the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup dream came to a crushing end in Prague with “pain” the overriding emotion for manager Heimir Hallgrimsson.
From the high of their stunning last-gasp victory over Hungary in November that sent them into the play-offs, the mood was in stark contrast for the Irish as hosts Czech Republic fought back on this occasion to force extra time and then prevail on spot-kicks.
It was a night that promised so much as the Republic of Ireland found themselves two goals to the good after 23 minutes thanks to a Troy Parrott penalty and own goal from Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar.
But the hosts grabbed a lifeline from a Patrik Schick penalty soon after before captain Ladislav Krejci nodded home four minutes from time to force extra time.
Hallgrimsson’s side could have been out of sight but for the post which denied Jason Molumby in the second period and Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar who clawed away a Parrott header.
The Irish held the advantage in the penalties when Caoimhin Kelleher saved from Mojmir Chytil, only for Kovar to save from Finn Azaz and Alan Browne before Jan Kliment won it for the hosts who now face Denmark for a place in the World Cup on Tuesday.
“I feel pride in the performance as they gave it their all,” a crestfallen Hallgrimsson told reporters.
“I feel gratitude to the supporters who showed up and supported the team throughout and even after the loss, but I and I know the players feel only pain.”