Czechia v Ireland: Four talking points after heartbreak in Prague

Ireland took a commanding 2-0 lead at the Fortuna Arena, but then the tide began to turn

HEARTBREAK: Republic of Ireland visibly dejected after their World Cup dreas came crumbling down in the Czech capital. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

1 The high-energy start 

By the end it felt like a lifetime ago but it is still worth remembering such a magnificent start. The tone appeared set when Chiedozie Ogbene forced Ladislav Krejci into conceding a cheap corner inside the first minute. Ireland pressed well and attacked with confidence to give themselves the platform to succeed.