HOW THE GROUP STANDS NOW

Blame it on the less-than-ideal build-up, where tickets and a hotel confrontation overshadowed the football, but Martin O’Neill will wake up this morning with a feeling of regret over the three points that slipped away.

Victory in Celtic Park against Scotland was Ireland’s chance to not only slide closer to securing a one of three qualification spots on offer, but, perhaps, to even emerge as group leaders. A win – especially away from home – would have lifted O’Neill’s side up to cloud nine.

However, the last night’s loss means they could be chasing rather than leading the pack next year. Germany are bound to improve after a shaky start, while Poland continue to impress and the Scots will be buoyed by beating Ireland – the team they feared most could have hindered their chances. There are now 134 days until Ireland return to action, when they simply must beat Poland. Failure to do so will knock them back further because both Germany and Scotland should beat Georgia and Gibraltar respectively on the same night.

One positive for Ireland is more than half of their remaining qualifiers will be at Aviva Stadium. But they’re now trying to regain momentum. That is bad news considering their three main rivals are up to speed.

THREE KEY FIXTURES

Germany v Poland, September 4, 2015

This clash is a chance for Germany to exact revenge for October’s 2-0 loss in Warsaw and to build up some momentum in a group they were expected to coast through. By the time this game rolls around, they should have beaten both Georgia and Gibraltar on the road.

Scotland v Germany, September 7, 2015

Maximizing home advantage can either make or break a qualifying campaign, so Scotland cannot afford to drop any points on home turf – even if it is against the World champions. It may take a Braveheart-like display from Gordon Strachan’s team to win this one and stay in the hunt.

Poland v Republic of Ireland, October 11, 2015

The final game could prove to be the most important for Martin O’Neill. A flying start was encouraging, although cramming six qualifiers – four of which are at home – into 2015 will be Ireland’s greatest test. By then, the issues over style, selection and (lack of) shots on goal must be resolved.

Remaining Fixtures – Group D

March 29, 2015: Georgia v Germany; Scotland v Gibraltar; Republic of Ireland v Poland

June 13, 2015: Gibraltar v Germany; Poland v Georgia; Republic of Ireland v Scotland

September 4, 2015: Georgia v Scotland; Gibraltar v Republic of Ireland; Germany v Poland

September 7, 2015: Poland v Gibraltar; Republic of Ireland v Georgia; Scotland v Germany

October 8, 2015: Georgia v Gibraltar; Republic of Ireland v Germany; Scotland v Poland

October 11, 2015: Germany v Georgia; Gibraltar v Scotland; Poland v Republic of Ireland