The Republic of Ireland’s play-off history dates as far back as 1965, with a play-off against Spain for a place at the 1966 World Cup. Ireland ultimately lost in their attempt to qualify for that World Cup in England, despite a 1-0 win over the Spanish at Dalymount Park. Ever since, the Irish have endured rather than enjoyed play-off ties.

That said, there have been some special moments throughout the half-century in which Ireland have battled for their right to play at the top table of both European and World football.

Dennis Irwin v Belgium, 1997.

Ireland snuck into second spot in qualification for France 98′, one point ahead of third-place Lithuania. It set-up a two legged affair with Belgium, who also finished second in their group.

With 8 minutes gone on the clock, Dennis Irwin, a deadball specialist for both club and country, stepped-up to send the 32,000 plus in attendance at Lansdowne Road that October night into raptures.

Robbie Keane v France, 2009.

Ireland were undone by a 72 minute goal from Nicolas Anelka in Dublin and headed into the second-leg 1-0 down. Four days later Ireland travelled to Paris and put in arguably the best Irish performance under then manager, Giovanni Trapattoni.

Ireland had began to boss the French and on 33 minutes Robbie Keane gave his team and Irish fans alike, the hope and belief that a place in South Africa 2010 was within reach.

Ireland v Iran, (First-leg) 2001.

A plane ticket to Japan and South Korea loomed for Ireland and a third ever appearance at a World Cup Finals. Iran stood in Ireland’s way, who were then under the stewardship of Mick McCarthy.

The first-leg took place at Lansdowne Road on November 10, 2001 and despite some resilient defence from the Iranians, Ireland were rewarded for their dominant display, with a 2-0 win. Despite the win, an unenviable trip to Tehran awaited McCarthy and his men.

Estonia v Ireland, 2011.

Easily the most enjoyable play-off night ever experienced for a Republic of Ireland side and their fans, as the boys in green dispatched Estonia 4-0 away from home in Tallinn.

Goals from Keith Andrews, Jon Walters and a brace from captain Robbie Keane, managed to all but end a ten year wait for the Irish to feature at a major tournament.

Iran v Ireland, (Second-leg) 2001.

Ireland travelled to the unfamiliar surroundings of Tehran, to take on Iran in the second-leg of their play-off.

Bizarrely, just seconds after Iran had grabbed a goal in added-on time, the Irish bench was emptying to celebrate as the referee blew for full-time.