‘Czechia is a tough place to go but anything can happen’ – Heimir Hallgrimsson upbeat on Ireland’s World Cup prospects

Latest | 

Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson celebrates after the World Cup 2026 Group F win over Hungary at Puskas Arena in Budapest, Hungary. Photo: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Heimir Hallgrimsson says Ireland have no reason to fear Czechia in the first bout of Ireland’s battle to get to the World Cup finals as he’s desperate to reward Irish fans for their support with a home tie in the play-off final.

Ranked 44th in the world, Czechia were rated below Ireland’s other possible opponents in the draw (Poland and Wales) and they are in chaos after a poor qualifying campaign so Hallgrimsson says he’s ready to take on whatever comes as he asks the squad to try and retain the upbeat feeling currently with his squad.