Ireland took a 2-1 lead into the break at half-time
Ireland fans celebrate Troy Parrott’s goal(Image: ©INPHO/Ben Brady)
People could not believe what they were watching during the first half of Ireland’s World Cup play-off semi-final clash with Czechia on Thursday night.
The Boys in Green had the dream start in Prague as Troy Parrott slotted home a penalty after referee Glenn Nyberg pointed to the spot following a VAR check.
The Swedish official felt there was enough contact by Czechia’s Vladimir Darida on Nathan Collins and Parrott netted from the spot after 19 minutes.
And the ball was in the net again just four minutes later as goalkeeper Matěj Kovář scored an own goal. However, the hosts hit back in the 27th minute as Patrik Schick scored a penalty.
Fans took to social media in their droves to have their say on the ‘mental’ opening half.
One person said: “Mad game this Czechia vs Ireland. Ireland leading 2-1 and we have not even played 35 minutes. Could go either way. Very open feel to it.”
Another commented: “This Czech v Ireland game is nuts, my nerves can’t take this.”
Someone else wrote: “This Ireland game is not for the weak.”
One other comment read: “Ireland Czech game is mental. Can see a sending off here if we’re not careful. Some sloppy tackles but madness from both sides.”