Hasek set to quit Czech post

Ivan Hasek is set to step down as coach of Czech Republic after failing to secure World Cup qualification.

Coach set to quit as Czechs crash out

Ivan Hasek is set to step down as coach of Czech Republic after failing to secure qualification for the 2010 World Cup. The Czechs were held to a goalless draw against Northern Ireland in their final group game, knowing their qualification hopes were slim to none. Both teams played for pride only in Prague, with Slovenia beating lowly San Marino 3-0 to guarantee a play-off place. Asked if the match with Northern Ireland would be his last as head coach, Hasek said: "Yes, certainly it was." Hasek took over at the helm in July when the Czechs were struggling in qualifying Group 3. Although they improved on their initial torrid start they could finish no better than third, having picked up just eight points in six games. Milan defender Marek Jankulovski has also called time upon his international career. The 32-year-old, who won 78 caps for his country, said: "I can confirm this. This was my last game. It has been a wonderful 10 years."