What's next for Ireland after World Cup despair in Prague?
Ireland players react as the World Cup dream comes to an end. Picture: INPHO/Ryan Byrne
The World Cup dream is dead but Ireland's responsibilities to Uefa's qualifiying process don't end with defeat to Czechia on penalties.
Next up is a 'friendly' with North Macedonia on Tuesday at Aviva Stadium (7.45pm). The North Madeconians were also defeated at the 'semi-final' stage, losing 4-0 to Denmark last night.
That game, now meaningless bar some minor value in ranking points, was previously the hottest ticket in Dublin. But has now seen many disappointed fans already attempt to offload their seats overnight.
Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson has already signed a new contract to pilot Ireland until the end of Euro 2028 qualification.
Ireland may yet qualify for that tournament as co-hosts, but the process begins with the Nations League fixtures this autumn.
Most talked about games there are the home and away games with Israel, which will now come back into focus with no trip to the USA and Mexico in store this summer.
Thursday, 24 September: Kosovo v Republic of Ireland 7.45pm
Sunday, 27 September: Israel v Republic of Ireland 7.45pm
Thursday, 1 October: Republic of Ireland v Austria 7.45pm
Sunday, 4 October Republic of Ireland v Israel 7.45pm
Saturday, 14 November Austria v Republic of Ireland 7.45pm
Tuesday, 17 November Republic of Ireland v Kosovo 7.45pm
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