Troy Parrott Sparks Ireland's Play-off Push

Ireland's Coleman ready for Czech Republic play-off test | ČTK / imago sportfotodienst / ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Seamus Coleman fit for Ireland's World Cup play-off semi-final vs Czech Republic, aims to deliver first World Cup appearance in 24 years. Thousands of Irish fans in Prague, many without tickets, as team eyes historic World Cup qualification.

Ireland's late surge, fueled by Parrott's 5 goals, books play-off spot; team eyes World Cup return...

Ireland's Seamus Coleman is fit and ready to take on the Czech Republic in the World Cup play-off semi-final, despite limited playing time for Everton this season. The 37-year-old defender is determined to lead his team to their first World Cup appearance since 2002.

Coleman was initially left out of the squad for Ireland's first two qualifying games due to lack of game time at club level, but has started all four matches since then. He's focused on delivering a strong performance and helping Ireland qualify for the World Cup.

The 37-year-old has bounced back strong, starting all four matches since his limited Premier League action, despite only logging 12 minutes this season. Vice-captain Coleman spoke to reporters in Prague ahead of Thursday's game, emphasizing the team's mindset: “Everyone wants to be playing, that's the way it works.”

Ireland's turnaround has been remarkable - from one point in three games to three straight wins, and they're keeping their eyes on the prize. Vice-captain Seamus Coleman emphasizes the team's focus on the present, rather than past play-off heartbreaks in 2010 and 2018. “Obviously the nation was hurt massively,” he said, referencing the past disappointments.

“I didn't have many minutes before the last games, but I train 100% every single day. Sometimes to my own detriment, maybe sometimes I go too hard and ‌it's cost me at times, but it's the only ⁠way I know.

“When you put on ‌the green shirt and when everything's at stake, I'm feeling good and I'm ready for the game.”

Troy Parrott Sparks Ireland's Play-off Push 

Troy Parrott was on fire, scoring all five goals in Ireland's must-win games against Portugal and Hungary. His hat-trick in Budapest, including a 96th-minute winner, sealed their play-off spot and turned their campaign around. 

Thousands of Irish fans have flocked to Prague, many without tickets, and Seamus Coleman is eager to give them a reason to celebrate. The team's focus is on delivering a strong performance and making their supporters proud.

𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 | 𝗠𝗗-𝟭 𝗶𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗲 🇨🇿🇮🇪

Go behind-the-scenes at Ireland’s final training session at the Fortuna Arena ahead of tomorrow’s FIFA World Cup 26 Play-Off Semi-Final against Czechia ☘️

Full episode out now on YouTube 💻👉 https://t.co/BdmtPJb36d pic.twitter.com/KSN2UBFI1A

— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) March 25, 2026

“Selfishly, it would be amazing because as players, you do ‌want to do as much as you can in the game,” Coleman said.

“But to be honest, after the aftermath of the last two games, seeing what ‌it did to our country was incredible, how it lifted our people, how it genuinely made people happier and gave people something to talk about.

“Myself and all the players, as much as we want to do it for ourselves, the manager, and all the staff, we do want to do ⁠it for the people of our ⁠country as well.”

Together 💚☘️ pic.twitter.com/bLhMCjWAiL

— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) March 25, 2026

The winner of Thursday's game gets to host the winner of Denmark vs North Macedonia in next Tuesday's play-off final. A big game awaits.