The countdown is on for a huge night in Prague as the Czech Republic host the Republic of Ireland on Thursday, 26 March at 19:45 in the World Cup play-off semi-finals. It’s a fixture loaded with tension, history, and the promise of a home final against Denmark or North Macedonia for whoever gets through. And because these games always feel bigger than they are, the talk naturally turns to how this might play out. So here’s what you need to know — including my Czech Republic vs Republic of Ireland prediction right from the early stages of this preview.

Czech Republic vs Republic of Ireland Team News

Both sides come into this with storylines that make the tie even more fascinating.

Czech Republic

The Czechs are in the middle of a messy period off the pitch. They’re still operating under interim boss Jaroslav Köstl, with sporting director Pavel Nedved deciding whether to stick with him or bring in someone new before the play-off. The players have also had their match bonuses withheld after the squad left the pitch without acknowledging supporters following their 6–0 win over Gibraltar. That incident even cost Tomás Soucek the captaincy, though not his place in the squad.

Despite the chaos, the Czechs still lean heavily on key figures such as Soucek, Adam Karabec, Michal Sadílek, and experienced attacking options like Patrik Schick and Tomas Chory. The core of the squad is built around the Prague clubs, which keeps their style familiar and cohesive even in a period of instability.

Republic of Ireland

Ireland, under Heimir Hallgrímsson, arrive with renewed energy after big results over Portugal and Hungary. You can feel the mood shift. The manager has leaned on a young, dynamic squad, and there’s no shortage of confidence heading to Prague despite Ireland never having won away to the Czechs.

Players like Caoimhín Kelleher, Nathan Collins, Jayson Molumby, Chiedozie Ogbene, and Troy Parrott have all played their part in Ireland’s recent form. With a home final waiting if they progress, the motivation couldn’t be stronger.

Likely Lineups

Czech Republic (possible)

Kovar; Coufal, Hranác, Zeleny, Jurasek; Beran, Soucek, Doudera; Karabec, Schick; Chory.
Sub options include Sadílek, Chytil, Danek, Ladra, Sejk, Hellebrand, Cerv, Chaloupek, and others.

Republic of Ireland (possible)

Kelleher; O’Brien, Collins, O’Shea, Coleman; Cullen, Molumby, Scales; Ogbene, Azaz; Parrott.
Bench options may include Idah, Kenny, Egan, Taylor, Manning, Dunne, McGrath, Johnston, and Ebosele.

Czech Republic vs Republic of Ireland Betting Tips

Tip 1: Both Teams to Score

Ireland are playing with confidence going forward, and the Czechs, even in turmoil, have attacking talent in Schick, Karabec, and Chory. A goal at each end feels realistic.

Tip 2: Ireland Double Chance

Given their recent wins and the mental weight sitting on the Czech camp, Ireland look well placed to avoid defeat in 90 minutes.

Tip 3: Second Half to Have More Goals

With nerves easing as the match develops — and both teams possessing late-game threats — the second half could be the more open period.

Czech Republic vs Republic of Ireland Match Prediction

Here’s what I think: the Czechs may have home advantage, but everything else feels shaky around them. A divided squad, an interim manager, and public criticism from their own federation isn’t the ideal lead-in to a knockout game.

Ireland, on the other hand, seem mentally stronger than they’ve been in years. Hallgrímsson’s side look organised, fit, and — more importantly — confident. Yes, Ireland have never beaten the Czechs away, but this is the best chance they’ve ever had.

Match Prediction: Republic of Ireland to win. Bet with bet365.

Czech Republic vs Republic of Ireland Correct Score Tips & Prediction

• 1–1 after 90 minutes (Ireland to progress in extra time)
  or
• Ireland 2–1 in normal time

Both reflect what this matchup feels like — tight, intense, but slightly leaning Ireland’s way.

Correct Score Prediction: Czech Republic 1-2 Republic of Ireland. Bet with bet365.

Czech Republic vs Republic of Ireland Over & Under Goals Betting Tips

• Under 3.5 goals also looks sensible given how cautious these play-off games can get.
• Over 2.5 goals is the most comfortable angle.

Over/Under Prediction: Over 2.5 Goals. Bet with bet365.

Czech Republic vs Republic of Ireland Bet Builder Tip

A simple, realistic builder based on the matchup:

• A goal in the second half
• Over 1.5 total goals
• Ireland double chance

Bet Builder Tip: Ireland double chance, both teams to score, under 3.5 goals. Bet with bet365.

Key Stats

• Ireland have beaten the Czech Republic twice in eight meetings.
• The Czechs have won all three of their home games against Ireland.
• Their most recent clash (2012) ended 1–1 in Dublin.
• Ireland’s best form recently includes wins over Portugal and Hungary.
• The Czechs reached the play-offs after finishing runners-up behind Croatia.

Visit our football previews & predictions page for more betting tips on upcoming matches.

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