The last place in next summer's European Championship is at stake tonight, and there's live coverage of this qualifying play-off match at Liverpool's Anfield ground - the first half on BBC 1 and the second half on BBC2 at 9.00pm.

The match, which is yet another big night for Jack Charlton's Republic side, is the consequence of a complicated qualifying system. Already eight qualifying group winners and the six runners-up with the best records have earned the right to join host nation England in the finals. The Republic and Holland were the runners-up with the least impressive records.

It is a difficult task for the Irish, with Holland threatening to come good at the right time. The Dutch were impressive 3-0 winners over Norway in their last group match. But the Republic, who are guaranteed strong and vocal support in Liverpool, have made a habit of denting reputations throughout manager Charlton's reign.