One group down, one more to go.
For Ireland to make it through as one of the four best third-place teams, they just need a better record than two counterparts.
The aim is for Ireland to reach four points and two equivalents to finish third with less points.
Already, one team definitely will finish below them in the third-place rankings. After Group A’s completion on Sunday night, third-place Albania finished on three points. If the Republic were to somehow beat Italy, they’d have four points.
Now, they need just one more group to pan out their way and, with four more to be rounded up before the clash with the Azzuri on Wednesday night, it looks very, very likely.
It could actually be confirmed as early as Monday night. An England win would ensure that third place in Group B will finish on three points at most.
Across Groups B, C, D and F, there are so many possibilities and Ireland just need one to come good. Remember, all this is dependent on Ireland winning. Unfortunately.
Group B
England v Slovakia
Wales v Russia
An England win would see Ireland qualify through third place (if they beat Italy).
Group C
Germany v Northern Ireland
Poland v Ukraine
A Germany win would ensure Group C’s third-place side finishes on three points.
Group D
Spain v Croatia
Czech Republic v Turkey
If Turkey get a result, Ireland’s potential four points would be enough to get through.
Group F
Hungary v Portugal
Iceland v Austria
If Hungary get a result, four points would have Ireland above Group F’s third place too.
There are other outs as well that could work for the Republic but a lot of them are dependent on ridiculous outcomes because the Republic are hamstrung by goal difference. They could even still finish second. The full rundown is here:
Here's exactly what has to happen for Ireland to qualify for the second round at Euro 2016 https://t.co/IY6tFVV8fn
— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) June 18, 2016
Now, just the small matter of beating Italy…
