With just over 24 hours to go before the start of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the feeling emanating from both the Australia and the Republic of Ireland camps was excitement.
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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 2022 in the world of women’s football. Here’s some highlights to keep an eye on.
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.
The final International break of the year is here. Euro 2021 Qualifying returns for Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. England host Germany at Wembley before travelling to the Czech Republic in a series of friendlies.
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.