'It's sad to talk about the Euros, but that's our job now' says Hallgrímsson

Even the prospect of home advantage at a major tournament come 2028 carried a limited appeal as Prague emptied and shattered dreams made their way home.

REMAINING POSITIVE: Heimir Hallgrímsson champions his Ireland side and their progress, despite Thursday's heartbreak. Pic: Ben Brady/Inpho

So much of the colour that painted Prague in such a brilliant light had drained away by Friday morning.

All but a few of the thousands of Irish fans had stuffed and stowed their green jerseys, tracksuit tops and hoodies into bags and wheelie cases. Hollowed eyes and haggard faces were the order of the day. There were no viral videos from the Old Town Square.