Penalty shootout agony hits home nations and Rangers players as Celtic star steals spotlight

World Cup heartbreak for Wales and Ireland as Denmark cruise — Celtic star shines ⚽😱

It was a night of mixed emotions in the World Cup play-offs, with heartbreak for the home nations and standout moments elsewhere.

Wales national football team saw their hopes crushed in dramatic fashion after a penalty shoot-out defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina national team following a tense 1-1 draw in Cardiff.

Wales looked set for victory after Dan James fired them ahead early in the second half, but veteran striker Edin Džekostruck late to force extra time. In the shoot-out, Bosnia held their nerve, winning 4-2 after misses from Brennan Johnsonand Neco Williams.

Northern Ireland fall as Italy advance comfortably

Elsewhere, Italy national football team progressed with a composed 2-0 victory over Northern Ireland national team.

Goals from Sandro Tonali and Moise Kean secured the win, while Northern Ireland — missing Liam Scales — were unable to respond.

Republic of Ireland suffer shoot-out agony

It was more penalty heartbreak for the Republic of Ireland national team, who were eliminated by Czech Republic national team after another tense encounter.

Misses from Finn Azaz and Alan Browne proved costly as their World Cup dream came to an end.

Denmark dominate despite key absence

In contrast, Denmark national football team produced a dominant display, thrashing North Macedonia 4-0.

Even without Kasper Schmeichel, the Danes were ruthless after the break, with Mikkel Damsgaard, Gustav Isaksen(twice), and Christian Nørgaard all finding the net.

Celtic star plays key role for Sweden

There was better news for Sweden national football team, as Benjamin Nygren impressed in a 3-1 win over Ukraine.

The Celtic forward provided an assist for Viktor Gyökeres, who went on to score a hat-trick and send Sweden into the next round.

Poland edge through in tense clash

Poland national football team also booked their place after battling past Albania. Despite falling behind, they turned the game around through goals from Robert Lewandowski and Piotr Zieliński.