Republic of Ireland soccer supporters may be on the way to Asia for the World Cup ahead of schedule, if Mick McCarthy's side can beat or draw with Holland in today's World Cup qualifying game at Lansdowne Road.
FIFA yesterday held the draw for the second-placed teams in the nine European qualifying groups, and the Republic will meet an Asian side in November if they finish as runners-up in their group. Almost 34,000 will be at the Dublin ground today for the crucial match which kicks off at 3 p.m.
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Dutch cheese and tulips as worn by Mr Hans Vogg, from Holland, in Dublin yesterday. The Dutch play Ireland at Lansdowne Road today. Photograph: Cyril Byrne
