What a win.
The dream is still alive for the Republic of Ireland.
In a tense, nervous and scrappy match, one moment of genuine quality was enough to keep the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup dream alive and end that of Wales.
Heading into the game, home draws with Wales and Austria halted Ireland’s early momentum in the group, but things deteriorated further after a disappointing result in Tiblisi. Ireland’s campaign was nearly derailed by a home defeat to Serbia – coupled with Wales’ win against Austria – as Chris Coleman’s side seized the initiative.
A routine win against Moldova over the weekend kept the Irish hopes alive as the clash in Cardiff loomed.
With the group on a knife-edge, the two sides met at the Cardiff City Stadium this evening with the winner guaranteed a playoff spot at the minimum.
Serbia’s win against Georgia ensured their automatic qualification to Russia, but in a poor game, Jeff Hendrick’s tenacity, Harry Arter’s vision, and James McClean’s technique combined for a wonderful goal.
James McClean, you absolute dancer. How about that step over from Harry Arter?!? #WALIRL #RTEsoccer pic.twitter.com/75hDzigE9L
— RTÉ Soccer (@RTEsoccer) October 9, 2017
It wasn’t pretty, it didn’t need to be. The Republic of Ireland have booked their place in the playoff.
With other qualification games still to be played, as things stand, here’s who Martin O’Neill’s men can face in the World Cup playoffs.
Play-off draw on Oct 17th and there should be some heavy permutation chat-Ireland will face Switzerland/Portugal, Italy, Croatia or Denmark
— Dion Fanning (@dionfanning) October 9, 2017
