Inishowen fans among thousands in Prague hoping Ireland can make history tonight
“It’s a great city, but it’s a special atmosphere this time. I didn’t get a ticket, but it’s worth being here to take it all in” - says Moville man
Thousands of Irish supporters, including hundreds from Donegal and Inishowen, have descended on Prague ahead of tonight’s crucial World Cup semi-final play-off between Republic of Ireland and Czechia.
The high-stakes clash kicks off at 7.45pm in the Fortuna Arena, with Ireland just one win away from a play-off final that could secure our first World Cup qualification in 24 years.
The significance of the match has not been lost on fans of the Boys in Green, who are hoping we can make it to the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico this summer.
Among them is Ciaran Keogh from Moville, who has made an elaborate journey to reach the Czech capital. Travelling via Munich and Dresden before arriving in Prague by train, he said the effort was more than worthwhile given the electric atmosphere in the city this morning.
“I flew into Dresden via Munich on Tuesday and came over to Prague on train yesterday. The atmosphere is brilliant,” he said. “I feel sorry for the locals though,” he joked, describing the sea of green jerseys filling the streets.
Ciaran, who has visited Prague before, said this trip feels entirely different this time due to the sense of occasion.
“It’s a great city, but it’s a special atmosphere this time. I was chatting to a good few Irish fans – all mad and in packs,” he said.
Despite not having secured a ticket for the match, he insisted that being there is what matters most.
“I didn’t get a ticket but it’s worth being here to take it all in,” he added.
Like many supporters, the Moville man is cautiously optimistic about Ireland’s chances. He believes strong performances from key players could make the difference.
“It won’t be easy, but if Kelleher and Parrott are on form and Coleman is a great leader as always, we have every chance,” he said, predicting a dramatic 2-2 draw with Ireland progressing on penalties.
He also joked about seeking a bit of luck before kick-off, saying he had heard that rubbing a statue of St John in Prague could bring good luck!
Meanwhile, Inishowen Sinn Féin county councillor and lifelong Irish football fan Jack Murray is among the fortunate contingent who have secured a ticket for the sold-out encounter, and he’s also backing Ireland to rise to the occasion.
Despite the wave of optimism among travelling supporters, bookmakers have installed Czechia as the 10/11 clear favourites, with Ireland priced at 3/1 to claim victory on what promises to be a tense and memorable night.
Come on you Boys in Green!