As part of Path D, these two nations will play in a single-game elimination match with the winner advancing. They will then be one game away from booking their place on the flight to North America to play in the biggest soccer competition.

The game is scheduled to take place on Friday, March 27, with kickoff at 06:45 AEDT.

Quick Picks

Our pick: Czechia to win

Value bet: BTTS not to hit

Long shot: Czechia to win 1-0

Betting Preview

Czechia managed to advance to the playoffs after finishing second in Group L. They would finish with 16 points (six behind Croatia), winning five of their eight games. They also had one draw, with two defeats. Goals were found regularly, as they scored 18 times, and limited the goals conceded to just 8.

In terms of their home form, they were unbeaten. They managed three wins and one draw, with the latter being a 0-0 tie to Croatia.

The Republic of Ireland would qualify for the playoffs after they finished second in Group F. They were behind Portugal, as they managed to obtain 10 points from their six games. Three wins and a draw (two defeats - both on the road) meant they had managed to secure 10 points, scoring nine goals and conceding seven.

Defeats to Armenia (2-1) and Portugal (1-0 in the final minute) will leave the Irish as underdogs heading into this upcoming contest against Czechia.

Betting Markets to Watch

Unsurprisingly, Czechia are considered favourites heading into this game. Their unbeaten home form in qualifying and higher world ranking (#43 to #59) lie in their favour, as does the home support they'll receive.

Of course, Ireland's defeat to Armenia in the second game will be something that many will feel could be an issue, as Czechia is likely to be just as hostile. Ireland don't have the best of records against Czechia, either. Over the eight meetings that have taken place, Ireland have won just two, with two draws and four defeats. The most recent was in 2012, which ended 1-1.

Where's the value? Home strength and Ireland's depleted attack suggest a narrow 1-0 or 2-0, with the 'Under 2.5 Goals' market offering value. The 'No' in the BTTS also offers value, as Czechia are typically very strong at home and do well to keep clean sheets, with home matches only seeing 17% of games hitting in the BTTS when they win.

Our Prediction

Check the latest Czechia vs Republic of Ireland betting odds at Sportsbet.

We think that Czechia to win is the most likely outcome of this upcoming match. They are strong at home, while Ireland won't be at full strength for this playoff game. For those interested in betting on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, this qualifier is a crucial step on the road to the tournament.

The BTTS offers value not to hit, while 'Under 2.5 Goals' also presents value worth exploring. With these in mind, our long shot is Czechia to win 1-0. You could also consider combining legs in a Same Game Multi to boost your potential returns.

For a deeper look at World Cup betting odds, explore the full range of markets available.

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