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.
The October International break is here. Euro 2021 Qualifying returns for the Wales and the Republic of Ireland. England host Brazil and travel to Portugal in a series of friendlies. Meanwhile the qualifying round for the U19 European Championships takes places involving all the Home Nations and the Republic of Ireland.
The first international break of 2019 takes place between 14th and 22nd January.
Here are the Home Nations and Republic of Ireland fixtures to take place.
(NB: to be updated as more are announced)