WALES, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland agonisingly missed out on keeping their World Cup dreams alive.
The trio were involved in play-off semi-finals as they looked to book their ticket to the USA, Canada and Mexico this summer.
But they are in a world of pain after falling heartbreakingly short on a night filled with drama.
Craig Bellamy’s Wales suffered a penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in Cardiff.
Crystal Palace’s £35million winger Brennan Johnson and Nottingham Forest defender Neco Williams missed from the spot.
That handed Bosnia a 4-2 win on penalties after the feisty showdown finished 1-1 following 120 minutes.
They will face Italy for a last-gasp spot in the World Cup after they notched a 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland.
Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, who has been linked with a move away from St James’ Park, grabbed the opener.
And former Everton striker Moise Kean ended Northern Ireland’s lingering hopes of mounting a comeback.
The Republic of Ireland also missed out on jetting out to the USA, Canada and Mexico for the World Cup.
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Like Wales, they were condemned to penalty shootout heartbreak after being unable to hold onto their lead against Czechia.
A Troy Parrott spot-kick and Matej Kovar own goal had put Ireland in the driving seat in Prague.
But Patrik Schick got his name on the scoresheet and Wolves defender Ladislav Krejci forced extra-time with a late leveller.
Finn Azaz and Alan Browne had their efforts from the spot saved, allowing Czechia to record a 4-3 win on penalties following the 2-2 stalemate.
The World Cup would have been welcoming hoards of Welsh, Northern Irish and Ireland fans if they sealed their spot.
England, who are facing Uruguay in a friendly tonight, will be competing in the summer extravaganza.
