Republic of Ireland midfielder Sammie Szmodics was hospitalized overnight following a collision with Czech Republic defender Stephan Chaloupek during extra time of their World Cup playoff match. The incident occurred moments after Szmodics, a Derby County player, came on as a substitute. Sammie was unconscious on the ground, but coach Heimir Hallgrimsson confirmed he regained consciousness and was undergoing tests before flying back to Ireland. The collision forced extra time after Szmodics' team had led 2-0. Ireland ultimately lost 4-3 on penalties after a late Czech equalizer, ending their playoff hopes.

Hallgrimsson revealed Szmodics was specifically named in the shootout list, prepared alongside six other players. The midfielder's injury casts immediate uncertainty over his availability for Derby County's upcoming season and raises questions about Ireland's squad depth for future qualifiers.