By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
Czech Republic and Bosnia and Herzegovina held their nerve in dramatic penalty shootouts to book places in the FIFA World Cup playoff finals after two pulsating semifinal clashes.
Both ties ended level after regulation time, but composure from the spot ultimately separated joy from heartbreak on a night of high-stakes football.
The Czech Republic produced a stunning comeback to defeat Republic of Ireland 4-3 on penalties after a 2-2 draw. Ireland had surged into a 2-0 lead early in the game, but the Czechs clawed their way back—first through a penalty from Patrik Schick, before captain Ladislav Krejci headed a late equaliser to force extra time.
With nothing to separate both sides, the contest went to penalties, where goalkeeper Matej Kovar emerged as the hero—saving two spot-kicks before Jan Kliment converted the decisive effort to send the hosts through.
In Cardiff, Wales suffered heartbreak as Bosnia and Herzegovina triumphed 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw. Wales looked set for victory after Daniel James’ stunning opener, but veteran striker Edin Džeko struck late—heading home in the 86th minute to level the tie and force extra time.
Despite dominating periods of extra time, Wales could not find a winner, and the match went to penalties. Bosnia held their composure, with youngster Kerim Alajbegović calmly converting the decisive kick to seal progression.
The victories send both teams into decisive playoff finals Czech Republic will face Denmark and Bosnia and Herzegovina will take on Italy.
With qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the line, both nations are now just one win away from football’s biggest stage. The semifinal clashes underlined the brutal nature of playoff football comebacks from losing positions, late equalizers under pressure and nerve-shredding penalty shootouts.
For Ireland and Wales, it was agony. For Czech Republic and Bosnia, it was resilience rewarded.
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