A perfect start slowly unravelled for the Republic of Ireland as they allowed a two-goal lead in Prague to slip away. The Czech Republic were gifted an entrance back into the game and only grew from there, forcing extra-time and penalties. In the shootout, Ireland’s recent playoff history would be retold; hope inevitably dashed as […]
Sweden secured a commanding 3-1 victory at the Estadio Ciudad de Valencia, delivering a tactical clinic that dismantled Ukraine and moved Graham Potter’s side into the playoff final. In a high-stakes World Cup Qualifier, Sweden exhibited the clinical edge and defensive organization that Serhiy Rebrov’s men sorely lacked. Despite controlling possession for long periods, Ukraine […]
Italy had plenty of possession in the first half of this game against a 5-4-1 low block from Northern Ireland but struggled to create chances with their right-side attack and rotations. Eventually, Sandro Tonali’s half-volley from the edge of the box put them ahead though, and it was comfortable for the Italians after that, with […]