Thursday, 13 October 2011

Republic of Ireland Draw Estonia


The Republic of Ireland will take on Estonia in the Euro 2012 play-offs after Thursday's draw in Krakow.

Estonia, who beat Northern Ireland twice in their qualifying group, are at home for the first leg against Giovanni Trapattoni's team on 11/12 November.

The return leg will take place at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on 15 November.

The other play-offs see Turkey up against Croatia, the Czech Republic take on Montenegro and Portugal face Bosnia Herzegovina.

The Republic beat Armenia 2-1 on Tuesday to secure their play-off spot.

Estonia have never reached the finals of a major tournament, and this is Tarmo Ruutli`s side`s first play-off appearance.

Ireland have played in five-play offs before, winning just once, while their last appearance ended in acrimony when they were knocked out by France following a controversial handball by Thierry Henry ahead of the 2010 World Cup.

Already through to the finals, alongside co-hosts Poland and Ukraine, are Spain, Germany, Russia, Italy, France, Holland, Greece, England, Denmark and Sweden.

The finals draw is on 2 December in Kiev and the tournament runs from 8 June until 1 July next year at eight venues.