Ireland’s World Cup summer is now within touching distance

There is still a chance for either side to top Group D, but that will depend on group leaders Serbia’s result against Georgia. Wales are keeping the ball easily but only Ramsey’s long-range effort has caused problems so far.

And a win on Monday could take them to their first World Cup since 1958.

1944: Fantastic singing from all for the national anthems. Updates from now on will be with the minute of the match.

Ultimately, though, they delivered on their requirements and can go into this evening’s match in Cardiff with a fair degree of optimism.

When are the World Cup play-offs? With only eight of the nine group runners-up going through to the elimination round the result in Cardiff could be pivotal for both sides.

Slovakia will be guaranteed a play-off place if one of Wales or Croatia draw on Monday night. But it may not be enough for a play-off place.

As Wales welcome the Republic of Ireland to Cardiff on another night of destiny in the capital 24 years later though, you sense Ramsey is exactly the right man to put Wales one step closer on the Road to Russian Federation.

Chris Coleman’s men will secure at least a play-off place if they draw or beat Ireland in Cardiff.

If Ireland fail to win, then Martin O’Neill’s men will not be going to Russian Federation next summer.

It follows on from 2,000 travelling fans belting out the tune prior to the 1-0 over win over Georgia on Friday despite attempts from the hosts to quash the away support and their singing.

1908: There are six Sky Bet Price Boosts available ahead of kick-off.

Israel will arrive in Tallaght having won first time out at home to Azerbaijan before returning from Norway with a point after a 0-0 draw.

Wales will start as favourites because they have home advantage, but it should be very close to call.

Republic of Ireland (probable): Darren Randolph, Cyrus Christie, Ciaran Clark, Shane Duffy, Stephen Ward; Jeff Hendrick, David Meyler; James McClean, Wes Hoolahan, Robbie Brady; Daryl Murphy.

Alan McLoughlin has spoken about his famous goal that sent Ireland to the World Cup in 1994.