Wales have suffered heartbreak as James McClean scored to earn the Republic of Ireland a victory which sends them into the playoff rounds to earn a place in next summers World Cup.

Wales controlled much of the game at Cardiff City Stadium, though they were left frustrated by good defending from the visitors.

The Republic grew in confidence however during the second half and Jeff Hendrick managed to take the ball away from out of form Wales captain Ashley Williams and send it to McLean who made no mistake in scoring.

Wales pushed forward after this in order to score two goals and keep their World Cup hopes alive but they could not break down the stubborn Irish defence.

Both teams needed nothing less than a win to clinch the playoff spot after Serbia defeated Georgia to secure first place in Group D and qualify for the World Cup next year automatically.