Tag Archives: 2018 World Cup qualifier

There was an absolutely bizarre ending to the World Cup qualifying clash between Colombia and Peru last night.  As the clock ticked down towards the final whistle, the scores were level at 1-1. Given results in other fixtures in their qualifying group for Russia 2018, a draw would prove to be enough to see Colombia qualify directly for next summer’s …

Despite a much-improved performance on Tuesday night, Ireland are now up against it in their bid to qualify for the 2018 World Cup.  Wales’ victory over Moldova combined with Martin O’Neill’s men’s defeat to Serbia means that a steep mountain will need to be climbed if Ireland are to finish second in the group. In truth, the Irish will likely …

Martin O’Neill has come in for some sharp but generally constructive criticism following Ireland’s abject display against Georgia at the weekend. The first half was the worst 45 minutes from an Ireland side many will remember. There were many problems on the night, the bulk of them originating from a central midfield trio unable to effect the game with or …

The Irish team’s focus at the moment will, of course, be solely directed on overcoming a tough Serbian outfit on Tuesday night, but there was one fantastic moment of distraction for Shane Long ahead of the game. As part of Three’s #TheCallUp campaign, the Southampton striker surprised Chloe, the young supporter featured in the video, with an Ireland jersey and …

It is becoming a tiresome repetition the way in which certain corners of the English media react when it comes to friendlies involving the Three Lions. In the build up to Tuesday night’s game against France in the Stade de France, there was no lack of noting that this was an inconsequential encounter. It was even questioned why this fixture …

The Republic of Ireland go into this weekend’s crucial 2018 World Cup qualifier versus Austria knowing that a victory would propel them towards Russia next summer. Currently joint top of group D with Serbia on eleven points, Martin O’Neill’s men have the chance to seriously dent Austria’s hopes of qualifying with a win whilst potentially simultaneously moving clear of both …

Seamus Coleman’s double leg break earlier this year in Ireland’s World Cup qualifier versus Wales was a huge blow to the Ireland set-up. With less and less Irishmen featuring regularly in the Premier League, Coleman is one of a handful who plays week in, week out. Not only that, he is regarded by many as one of the top right-backs in …

Seamus Coleman’s cruel injury, suffered against Wales in March has robbed the Irish captain of his chance to lead his team to World Cup Qualification – yet the 28-year-old will still play a part of the qualification run in on the invitation of manager Martin O’Neill. As reported in the Irish Independent, O’Neill has invited his captain to be part …

Seamus Coleman has begun the long road to recovery following the horrific leg-breaking tackle he suffered in last month’s World Cup qualifier against Wales in Dublin. The Ireland captain has expressed his intention to return to fitness as the same player he was and has dismissed talk that an injury such as the one he has suffered means a player can …

When Northern Ireland entertain Norway at Windsor Park on Sunday night in World Cup qualifying Michael O’Neill’s men may again look to Kyle Lafferty for goalscoring inspiration. The 29-year-old continues to lead the way for his country and has netted 20 times in 59 international appearances. Indeed, his form in helping Northern Ireland qualify for last summer’s European Championships was quite fantastic. …

Although Gareth Bales, Joe Allen and Aaron Ramsey are the first names that come to mind when the Wales national team is mentioned, their side is equipped with a number of other talented players. Their run to the Euro 2016 semi-finals was no fluke. Granted the above trio in particular had a major role to play, but the togetherness of the …

Following Claudio Ranieri’s controversial sacking on Thursday, Republic of Ireland manager Martin O’Neill was one of the first names tipped to replace him. The Derry native enjoyed a very successful five-year period with the Foxes in the late 1990’s. With the side dropping into the relegation zone yesterday, fans were begging for the club to go after a proven coach …

Last week Conor Hourihane completed his long touted transfer to Aston Villa. This move is a signal of intent from the Cork man, who will be hoping to force his way into the Ireland squad for next month’s World Cup qualifier against Wales. This season has been one of the best for Irish players domestically in many years. To name a few, Daryl …

Shane Long has managed just three goals this season but his searing pace and admirable work-rate often make up for his struggles in front of goal. The Tipperary man is now officially the Premier League’s fastest player after he clocked up a phenomenal 35.31 km/h sprint against Watford back in August. He latched on to a through ball that he …

It was yet another eventful and successful weekend for Irish sport with victory for Conor McGregor over Eddie Alvarez at UFC 205 while the Irish rugby team followed up that historic win against the All Blacks by dispatching of Canada. However, Irish sport’s performance of the week has to go to the international football team, who delivered yet another golden …

Martin O’Neill’s Ireland travel to Vienna on Saturday to take on Austria in a vital World Cup qualifier at the Ernst-Happel-Stadion. Ireland are nicely placed at joint-top in the group with Serbia. Having steadily improved the team’s performances since his appointment, Saturday’s team selection will be a key indicator of O’Neill’s belief in this group of players. Austria really flattered …

Welcome to episode 4 of season 4. It may be international weekend in football but it’s always international weekend on the Coshcast as a Nigerian, Egyptian, Indian and Brit take you through the latest news. But we’re all Canadian too, eh? It was a transfer deadline day to remember as Chelsea spent £30 million on David Luiz, Spurs decide they just must have …

Brazil, by their lofty standards, have had a barren run in international football in recent years, but the signs are that this great football nation is ready to bounce back. Brazil may be synonymous with football, but since the 2007 Copa America victory, the Seleção have often been rudderless, struggling to find a philosophy – let alone their distinct version of o …