Krejci Captains Czechia to World Cup Play-Off Final

Overview

• As stand-in captain, Ladislav Krejci won a first-half penalty that Patrik Schick converted and later headed an 86th-minute equaliser to force extra time.
• He took the first kick in the shootout and scored, and Czechia advanced 4-3 on penalties to a final against Denmark in Prague.
• The Republic of Ireland had gone 2-0 up after a VAR-awarded foul let Troy Parrott score and a corner sequence saw the ball cross the line off goalkeeper Matej Kovar.
• Reports in England say the performance has sparked calls for Wolverhampton Wanderers to secure Krejci on a permanent deal and to consider him for the armband, which is opinion rather than a club decision.
• Club legend Steve Bull urged Wolves to fight to keep the 26-year-old, noting the squad could face a reshuffle if relegation is confirmed.