Agony for Northern Ireland as first-leg penalty proves decisive
The Irish haven’t qualified for the World Cup since Mexico 1986
Northern Ireland saw their World Cup dream die in Basel on Sunday, though it was a controversial penalty three days earlier that ultimately sent Switzerland through to Russia.
The Green and White Army will spend years seething over Ovidiu Hategan’s decision to give a spot-kick for a handball against Corry Evans at Windsor Park, with the Northern Irish unable to overcome the deficit in a 0-0 draw at St Jakob-Park.
Michael O’Neill’s side went down fighting, with the type of spirit that has typified his tenure, and Jonny Evans’ stoppage-time header was cleared off the line, fittingly, by Ricardo Rodriguez, the man who converted from 12 yards in Belfast.
Tweet of the match
Former Northern Ireland international Stephen Craigan still having nightmares about the referee’s controversial first-leg penalty decision.
Star man
George Saville: Was tremendous in his first international start. Tireless in a boggy midfield and was always willing to get forward.
Moment of the match
Ricardo Rodriguez, who scored the controversial penalty in the first leg, cleared Jonny Evans’ header off the line in added time.
Data point
Switzerland, who have not lost a competitive fixture at home since 2008, have qualified for four consecutive World Cup tournaments for the first time since 1954 when they hosted the tournament.