Glenn Nyberg, who sent off Ronaldo in Dublin, to officiate Ireland playoff

James Cox

Ireland fans will be familiar with the referee for Thursday's massive World Cup playoff, Glenn Nyberg showed Cristiano Ronaldo a red card in the 2-0 victory over Portugal in Dublin.

Ronaldo elbowed Dara O’Shea off the ball and Nyberg initially gave him a yellow card. However, a VAR review showed a deliberate elbow and Nyberg upgraded the offence to a sending off for the Portugal captain.

He got the majority of calls right in the crucial World Cup qualifier, so his appointment will be welcome news for Irish fans heading to Prague for the big game.

Ronaldo was furious at the decision and exchanged angry words with Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrímsson.

Kick off for Ireland vs the Czech Republic is at 7.45pm, with coverage on RTÉ 2 starting from 7pm.

The winners of the game will face either Denmark or North Macedonia with a place in the World Cup at stake.

Ireland will have a huge advantage if they make the playoff final as the game will take place at the Aviva Stadium on Tuesday, March 31st. While it is a demoralising prospect, if the Boys in Green lose they will face the other losing semi-finalist in a friendly game.

Read everything you need to know about the big game here.