Sammie Szmodics was released from hospital in Prague following a head injury sustained during Republic of Ireland's World Cup play-off defeat to the Czech Republic. The 24-year-old Derby loanee collided with defender Stepan Chaloupek just two minutes after coming on as an extra-time substitute at the Fortuna Arena, prompting medics to rush to his aid. He was stretchered off and spent the night under observation before being discharged with the support of both the FAI and Derby medical teams.

Szmodics later thanked fans and medical staff via X for their quick response, expressing his disappointment at the play-off loss. Ireland captain Nathan Collins acknowledged the team's near-miss in reaching the World Cup finals but emphasized the need to build on the positive environment created with fans and the country.