It’s hard to sum up how it will feel to watch Ireland kick off their first ever major tournament in Sydney against Australia on July 20th. In what is arguably one of the toughest groups, it still felt like fate when they drew the hosts in the opener. As if that moment could be any more special! I’m not sure I’ll fully believe that the girls in green have actually made it to the FIFA Women’s World Cup until I see them line up, shoulder to shoulder in a sold-out Stadium Australia belting out Amhrán na bhFiann. My biggest concern first and foremost is whether I’ll be able to take decent photos through what will no doubt be tear-filled eyes; my second is… Australian captain Sam Kerr.
With preparations for this summer’s showpiece World Cup gathering steam, there are friendlies taking place around the world over the next few weeks. The OFC U19 Championships are also taking place as well as the Central American + Caribbean Games
There’s a lot to look forward to in 2023 in the world of women’s football. Here’s some highlights to keep an eye on.
Vera Pauw praised her “special group'” of players as the Republic of Ireland claimed a FIFA World Cup play-off spot for the first time in their history. Pauw’s team dug deep and never stopped running to earn three points off a tough Finland side in front of a record-breaking 6,952 spectators in Dublin.
After their first game against Georgia was postponed in September, Ireland opened their long-awaited FIFAWWC qualification campaign to Sweden on a chilly October night in Tallaght, Dublin. The home side put on a strong defensive display against the Olympic silver medallists and second ranked team in the world, but ultimately fell to a 1-0 defeat due to an unfortunate own goal from Louise Quinn.
England U19s opened their European qualification with a hard-fought victory over a spirited Republic of Ireland side.
Women’s football is at an inflection point in the Republic of Ireland. With big sponsorship deals, an enthralling national league and players making names for themselves on the biggest stages, it is a highly exciting time for all involved.
Strong foundations, several near misses and a tonne of hard work have made Peamount United a force to be reckoned with in Irish domestic football.
Since joining the FAI WNL in 2013, Galway WFC have established themselves as a strong contender in the league. With the arrival of Billy Cleary as manager, they have finished 4th the last two seasons and will be aiming to move further up the table this time out.
We caught up with Billy and captain, Keara Cormican, to find out more about themselves and the team ahead of Saturday’s opening game against DLR Waves.