The Republic of Ireland continue their quest to book their place at the World Cup this evening as they face Czechia in Prague.
Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side kept their qualification hopes alive with a win over Portugal and a dramatic 3-2 defeat of Hungary in November, inspired by Troy Parrott’s hat-trick.
Ireland have not qualified for the World Cup since 2002, and suffered galling defeats in qualifying play-offs ahead of the 2010 and 2018 tournaments. Only two members of the current squad, Everton’s Seamus Coleman and Robbie Brady, have represented their nation at a major tournament - Euro 2016.
Czechia, meanwhile, trounced Gibraltar 6-0 last time out to confirm their place in the play-offs.
The central European nation are also bidding to end an extended World Cup finals hiatus. They have not graced the tournament since 2006, when they were dumped out in the group stage.
Ireland assistant coach John O’Shea said his side are treating the match as a cup final.
“The boys are in a good place,” he said after announcing his squad for the match. "Training today was almost reminding me of that cup final scenario. There's a quiet confidence in the group growing together, it's great to see but we know there's a lot of hard work to come."
How to watch Czechia vs the Republic of Ireland
Live stream: In the UK, the game will be televised live on Amazon Prime Video, with coverage starting at 7.35pm ahead of a 7.45pm kick-off.
The match is available on pay-per-view for £2.49.
