Republic of Ireland’s

scenarios 1st pl. 2nd 3rd Out

Ireland enters its last match in last place but with a real path to the Round of 16. It must defeat Italy on Wednesday. If it does, it will finish in second or third place, depending on the result of the Sweden-Belgium game. If it ends in third place with four points, it’s almost certain to qualify for the Round of 16. A silver lining for Ireland: Its opponent, Italy, has already clinched first place in Group E and may have incentive to rest some players.