Despite scoring their first major tournament goal, the Republic of Ireland were knocked out of the Women’s World Cup after Canada came from behind to win 2-1 in Group B.
The Girls in Green made a dream start in Perth, following on from an impressive tournament debut against Australia. It was none other than Katie McCabe (4) who curled in a direct corner, writing her name further into the Republic of Ireland history books.
Vera Pauw’s side continued to dominant a disjoined and lacklustre Canada, but were masters of their own downfall as Megan Connolly (45+4) poked the ball into her own net for an equaliser.
Canada manager Bev Priestman – a former Lionesses assistant manager – made three half-time substitutions, which instantly improved her team. It proved the difference as Adriana Leon slotted the ball past Courtney Brosnan (53), sending Canada top of Group B ahead of tomorrow’s other match between Australia and Nigeria.
For Ireland, the defeat sees them exit their first World Cup at the group stages, although they have one more chance to earn their first points against Nigeria in their final group game on Monday.
More to follow…
What’s next?
Group B returns on Monday July 31. Canada face Australia at Melbourne Rectangular Stadium while the Republic of Ireland take on Nigeria at Brisbane Stadium; both games kick off at 11am.
What is the schedule?
The group stage has begun and runs over a two-week period finishing on August 3. Group winners and runners-up progress to the round of 16, which takes place from August 5 to August 8.
The quarter-finals, which will be held in Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane and Sydney, are scheduled for August 11 and 12.
The first semi-final will then be played on August 15 in Auckland, with the other semi-final taking place on August 16 at the Accor Stadium in Sydney, which will then host the final on August 20.
A third-place play-off will be played the day before the final on August 19 in Brisbane.
