Ireland have the opportunity to book a place in the World Cup finals in Japan and Korea next year if they can overcome Iran in the Azadi stadium in Tehran this afternoon.

Win, lose or draw today, Mick McCarthy is in a wonderful position to fulfil a personal dream - or even two.

Ireland take a two-goal lead to Teheran on Thursday after a professional display against a largely unadventurous Iran side.

Robbie Keane volleys home Ireland's second after 50 minutes.

A 43rd minute penalty converted by Ian Harte divides the two sides in the first leg of the World Cup play-off.

Ian Harte successfully converts a penalty before half-time to put Ireland ahead in the first leg of the World Cup play-off in Dublin.

The first leg of the World Cup qualifier between Ireland and Iran has just kicked off at Lansdowne Road.