Soccer fans in the Republic have been left fuming after Ryanair hiked its prices by nearly 20pc for a crucial World Cup qualifier.

The fans were relieved when the budget airline agreed to fly them direct to Bari for the Republic's clash with Italy on April 1.

Ryanair had lured supporters with a promise of a return package to the Adriatic city costing €399 (£353).

But within a couple of days the price had been hiked by €75.

The increase has been piled on to the return flight, giving fans the choice of paying it or being left stranded.

Apart from Ryanair's 'special' offer, there are no direct flights from Ireland to Bari. Ryanair also operates a flight from London Stansted to the Italian city.

Fans can also fly from Dublin to Rome or Milan and then take a second flight - or a train - to Bari.

The Republic will take on the might of the world champions in the 58,000 capacity Stadio San Nicola. Bari emerged as the surprise choice after Rome, Florence and Naples were rejected.

Up to 15,000 Irish fans are expected to travel for the April 1 game which will see manager Giovanni Trapattoni take on his homeland.

Trapattoni's return is guaranteed to generate huge interest among Italian fans, a fact which prompted the Italian federation to decide the game should be played at a bigger stadium.

The Olympic Stadium in Rome was the federation's original choice.

However, that plan was abandoned last November after concerns were raised by Uefa president Michel Platini because of the possibility of "incidents" at the stadium during the game.

Of the price increase, Ryanair said it launched the return fares at €399.89, sparking a massive response from customers.

The company said the lowest fares were snapped up and the price increased as availability declined, as is standard practice.

News that Bari was to be the venue was a blow to the hundreds of supporters who had booked cheap flights and accommodation to Rome in anticipation of the city hosting the match.