Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy expects his side's two-legged World Cup play-off to be switched to a one-off match at a neutral ground if military action takes place in Asia.
Ireland thrashed Cyprus 4-0 at Lansdowne Road yesterday to move on to 24 points, but Portugal's 5-0 demolition of Estonia left McCarthy's side behind the Group Two winners on goal difference.
The Asian qualifying matches are yet to be completed. But Ireland could face Iran, Saudi Arabia or Uzbekistan _ and with tension building in the area, McCarthy is anticipating a change of venue.
Speaking on Radio 5 Live's Sportsweek, he said: "All the indications are if anything happens with the crisis it'll be a one-off game on neutral territory.
"It's such a shame it's happening _ and we'll be dictated to by politicians. It's a shame we can't play."
Reflecting on yesterday's victory, McCarthy praised Niall Quinn who scored his 21st international goal on his 35th birthday to break Frank Stapleton's record and become his country's leading all-time scorer.
McCarthy added: "I don't think I've ever heard that before _ the whole crowd singing Happy Birthday to someone! It was a good performance and a good result, but sadly 24 points weren't enough. We didn't score enough goals."