Event of the Day: Wales v Republic of Ireland

 Our event of the day is...

the FIFA World Cup Qualifier between Wales and the Republic of Ireland at Cardiff City Stadium in what is arguably the biggest game in recent history for both countries. Serbia currently top Group D on 18 points with the winners automatically going to the World Cup in Russia next summer. Wales occupy second with 17 points with Republic of Ireland one point behind in third. This means that tonight is effectively a one-off elimination match for second place and a ticket to the playoffs. This evening is sure to be a roller-coaster of emotion for both sets of fans during a tense 90 minutes of football.

Wales arguably have the advantage being a point ahead of their opponents and playing at home. However they will be without star player Gareth Bale, with the Real Madrid striker ruled out with a calf strain. Both teams come into tonight’s game on the back of crucial wins on Friday to keep their qualification hopes alive with Wales winning in Georgia and the Republic of Ireland coming out on top against Moldova. With only eight of the nine second-placed teams guaranteed a playoff spot, both teams will go for the win to give them the best chance of booking a place at the World Cup.

Honourable mentions...

around the globe go to the opening round at the Shanghai Masters. World number 1 Rafael Nadal and number 2 Roger Federer are two of the standout entrants in this year’s competition.

There are seven NHL games, including Toronto Maple Leafs vs Chicago Blackhawks at Air Canada Centre. NFL sees the Chicago Bears host Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field in a NFC North clash. In MLB, the Chicago Cubs face the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field in one of the four MLB Division Series matches.

Whatever you’re watching, enjoy!

Fixture

Photos by FIFA World Cup