Republic of Ireland Squad Announced for World Cup Playoffs, Hallgrímsson Signs Extension
The Republic of Ireland squad has been named for the upcoming FIFA World Cup playoff against the Czech Republic, with manager Heimir Hallgrímsson also confirming a contract extension that will see him lead the team through the Euro 2028 campaign, which Ireland will co-host.
Squad Announcement
Hallgrímsson revealed his 25-man squad on Thursday, March 19, 2026, with a notable inclusion being QPR’s Harvey Vale, who recently switched international allegiance from England. The squad features a blend of experienced players and emerging talent as Ireland prepares for the crucial playoff match in Prague on March 26th.
Goalkeepers: Caoimhín Kelleher (Brentford), Mark Travers (Everton), Josh Keeley (Luton Town).
Defenders: Séamus Coleman (Everton), Jimmy Dunne (QPR), Nathan Collins (Brentford), Dara O’Shea (Ipswich Town), Jake O’Brien (Everton), John Egan (Hull City), James Abankwah (Watford), Liam Scales (Celtic), Robbie Brady (Preston North End), Ryan Manning (Southampton).
Midfielders: Jayson Molumby (West Bromwich Albion), Bosun Lawal (Stoke City), Jack Taylor (Ipswich Town), Alan Browne (Middlesbrough), Jason Knight (Bristol City), Finn Azaz (Southampton), Harvey Vale (QPR).
Attackers: Troy Parrott (AZ Alkmaar), Adam Idah (Swansea City), Johnny Kenny (Bolton, on loan from Celtic), Chiedozie Ogbene (Sheffield United, on loan from Ipswich Town), Sammie Szmodics (Derby, on loan from Ipswich Town).
Liam Scales is suspended for the match against the Czech Republic.
Hallgrímsson Commits Future to Ireland
Alongside the squad announcement, the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) confirmed that Heimir Hallgrímsson has signed a novel contract extending his tenure as Republic of Ireland manager through the end of the Euro 2028 tournament. The agreement provides stability and a clear vision as Ireland prepares for both the World Cup playoffs and hosting duties for Euro 2028.
“I am incredibly proud and delighted to commit my future to the Republic of Ireland,” Hallgrímsson stated. “I have always said that we are on a journey together – the players, the staff, and our incredible supporters. I can see the real progress we are making and the huge potential in this group, so it was an easy decision for me to make.”
FAI chief executive David Courell added, “We are thrilled to secure Heimir for the long term. He has brought a clear vision, a strong tactical identity, and a sense of belief back to the senior men’s national team. This new contract provides the stability and leadership required to achieve our ambitious goals, not just in the upcoming playoffs but as we build towards a historic home tournament at Euro 2028.”
Playoff Pathway and Potential Opponents
Should Ireland overcome the Czech Republic in Prague, they will face either Denmark or North Macedonia in a playoff final at the Aviva Stadium on March 31st. A victory in the final would secure a place at the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Ireland would be placed in Group A, facing Mexico, South Africa, and South Korea.
Hallgrímsson expressed optimism heading into the playoffs, stating that Ireland has “nothing to lose, everything to gain.”