Soccer
The greatest day in Ireland's World Cup history as big Jack's boys prevail in penalty drama
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The Republic of Ireland's absence from this summer's World Cup has been keenly missed, after all, they've provided the tournament with some memorable moments over the years.
Robbie Keane's stunner against Germany in 2002, and their exploits the last time the finals was in the US are scenes that go down in the competition's history.
But perhaps their greatest moment on football's grandest stage came 36 years ago today, on their World Cup debut at Italia 90.
They began the tournament with a credible 1-1 draw with England, before earning draws against both Egypt and the Netherlands in the group stage, and the three points was enough to see Jack Charlton's men through to the knockout round after being among the best third-place teams.
This was a team built on big personalities and the majority all playing in one of Europe's top divisions, with names such as Niall Quinn, Paul McGrath and Ray Houghton all playing starring roles.
In the Round of 16, they faced Romania, led by the brilliant Gheorghe Hagi and it was here that it looked as though their World Cup journey would end. But Ireland didn't know when to quit.
After a goalless 120 minutes, the game was decided by a penalty shootout.
After eight successful spot kicks, you could cut the tension in Genoa with a knife, but the luck of the Irish was on the side of the team in green. Packie Bonner saved Ioan Lupescu's effort, and it was down to David O'Leary to be the hero.
One side foot to the right later, and it sent the Irish into delirium, and into the last eight.
Their journey would end with defeat to hosts Italy, but it remains the furthest any Ireland has been in their World Cup history.
Ireland's greatest day
Jack Charlton's boys beat Romania in a penalty shootout
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