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How Can Ireland Qualify?
By Ade O`Connor September 6 2003
With not long left until the very important game, the Republic of Ireland v Russia – it may be worth speculating on what sort of score would leave Ireland where in the group. It is possible to secure a play-off spot today, but only with the right result.
Goal difference is not so much the issue in this qualifying format; games against nations are seen as two legged affairs. Ireland is currently 4-2 down on aggregate to the Russians, but this is still a relatively decent position.

Should Ireland win by the score of 2-0 or 3-1, or by 3 goals or more with any score, and then they will be guaranteed a play-off place regardless of other results.

In the event of this occurrence, then a Russia victory against Switzerland in midweek would leave Ireland needing just a draw when they face the Swiss in Berne.

Of course, any sort of win will be a positive result, as anything but a Russian victory against Switzerland in midweek would leave Ireland at least in the play-offs.

A draw today, and a Russian victory in midweek would leave the group wide open for all.

A loss just doesn’t bare thinking about, quite frankly.


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