It’s down to this. A win-or-lose night in Prague, with Ireland facing a higher-ranked Czech side in what's shaping up to be the defining game of their World Cup campaign. But long before a ball is kicked, the real battle is already underway — inside the players’ heads. 

On today’s podcast, Ciara Doherty looks at what happens in those final hours before kick-off. The noise, the nerves, the pressure, and how elite athletes learn to manage it all when everything is on the line. From blocking out distractions and handling expectation, to building belief and staying calm under pressure, what separates those who thrive from those who falter? 

Performance coach and former Armagh footballer Enda McNulty joins Ciara to explain how mindset and preparation can shape the outcome of a game before it even begins. With insights from elite sport — and lessons that go far beyond the pitch — this is a look at the psychology of high performance when it matters most. 

And as Ireland prepare for a huge night in Prague… the question is simple: can they hold their nerve?