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The Republic of Ireland will look to take revenge for their 5-2 humiliation in Nicosia three years ago when they meet Cyprus in a crucial World Cup qualifier this weekend. Sign up today with the Live Sport Network to watch Cyprus vs Ireland live on your computer.

Cyprus are currently fourth in Group 8 with five points, nine behind world champions Italy. If they lose to the Republic, and Italy beat Georgia as expected, then Cyprus’ hopes of qualifying for next year’s showpiece in Africa will be over.

Striker Michalis Konstantaniou, who scored twice for Cyprus in that famous 5-2 win in October 2006, is suspended for this game. Cyprus coach Angelos Anastasiadis will also have to do without the services of midfielder Konstantinos Makridis. We could also see a debut for young Georgios Efrem, who has previously played for Arsenal and Rangers.

The Republic of Ireland are second in the group with 13 points from seven games. Their last friendly was against Australia, which they lost 3-0. Coach Giovanni Trapattoni has a big defensive headache as several of his first choice defenders are injured. Ireland have not kept a clean sheet in their last seven international games.

Steve Finnan and Paul McShane are the two big names on that injury list. Preston centre half Sean St.Ledger is struggling with a knee problem. Man City midfielder Stephen Ireland has ruled out a comeback to the national team, which puts more pressure on the likes of Aiden McGeady, Damien Duff and Robbie Keane to fire.

When the two teams met at Croke Park last year, the Irish prevailed 1-0 thanks to Robbie Keane’s early strike. Can the Irish erase the ghosts of their humiliating 5-2 defeat three years ago, and beat Cyprus this weekend? Watch Cyprus vs Republic of Ireland live to find out.