Saturday, 15 April 2006, 10:15 GMT 11:15 UK
Irish hopes hit by Belgium defeat
Ireland's hopes of making the World Cup have suffered a major setback after Saturday's 1-0 defeat to Belgium in the qualifying tournament in China.
Jerome Truyens' ninth-minute penalty corner was enough to decide the match.
"We were really on top in the second half but just could not find that equaliser we deserved," said Irish manager Steven Hiles.
Ireland are fourth in their six-nation pool with matches against Egypt and favourites Pakistan remaining.
Dave Passmore's side trail leaders England by six points with only the top two going through to the semis, which guarantees participation in September's World Cup in Germany.
The best Ireland can hope for is to finish in the top four and take their chance in the play-offs for the one remaining qualification place.
The Irish take on Egypt on Monday with the final group game against Pakistan on Wednesday.
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Related to this story:
England beat Irish in qualifiers
(12 Apr 06 |
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Ireland clinch qualifier victory
(13 Apr 06 |
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