Republic of Ireland U21s falter against Italy in group decider, play-offs await

The real pity of the loss for Crawford's side is that their problems were self-inflicted.

Republic of Ireland players, including Conor Coventry, centre, at the water break during the UEFA European U21 Championship Qualifying group F match between Italy and Republic of Ireland at Stadio Cino e Lillo Del Duca in Ascoli Piceno, Italy. Photo by Eóin Noonan/Sportsfile

Italy 4 Republic of Ireland 1

The Republic of Ireland’s U21s will have to negotiate a tricky playoff route if they are to qualify for next year’s European Championships after a hugely disappointing performance in Ascoli to close out Group F.