HISTORY LESSON

The Republic of Ireland are bidding to reach the World Cup finals for only the fourth time in their history.

Here is how they got on previously:

▶ 1990

Despite drawing all three group games at Italia 90, Jack Charlton’s side reach the last 16 where they defeat Romania 5-4 on penalties after a goalless draw. However, they were beaten 1-0 in the quarterfinals in Rome by Italy.

▶ 1994

Ireland avenged their loss to Italy by winning their opening group game in New York 1-0 thanks to Ray Houghton’s goal. They went on to again reach the last 16, but Charlton’s men were beaten 2-0 by the Netherlands. ▶ 2002

The Irish overcame a difficult build-up as captain Roy

Keane quit the squad before the tournament in South Korea and Japan after falling out with manager Mick McCarthy. The Irish lost on penalties 3-1 to Spain in the last 16 following a 1-1 draw in Suwon.