The Welsh women’s team are two matches away from making their international tournament debut in Switzerland next summer. After a tight play-off semi-final against Slovakia, where the Welsh side lost the first leg 2–1, it seemed the chances of Euro qualification were slipping away. However, in the second leg hosted at Cardiff City’s stadium, an extra time goal from captain Jess Fishlock saw Wales achieve a 2–0 win guaranteeing them a spot in the playoff final against the Republic of Ireland.
So, what can Welsh fans expect against the Republic of Ireland? Ireland qualified for their first international tournament in the 2023 World Cup hosted in Australia. They finished last in a strong group, including Canada, Nigeria, and host Australia, with 1 point. Despite this, it’s clear that Ireland will put up a strong fight to qualify for the Euros, hoping to qualify for two major tournaments in a row. A strong showing against Georgia in their play-off semi-final, saw Ireland win by an aggregate of 9–0.
One player who will certainly put up this fight is Ireland’s star player and captain, Arsenal midfielder Katie McCabe. Known for her aggressive style, she plays with her heart on her sleeve, and she will certainly be hoping to be the captain to lead her team to Euros qualification. Some other players to look out for are: Denise O’Sullivan, the North Carolina Courage midfielder, who will link up seamlessly with Katie McCabe to create a robust midfield that fights for every ball on the pitch; and Everton goalkeeper, Courtney Brosnan, who won player of the year for the Irish squad in 2023 and has made the most saves out of any Women’s Super League keeper in the 2023/2024 season, saving ninety-five shots, with a 75% save percentage; she certainly will prove a test to get past at the back.
There’s no doubt this game will be a battle. Both teams are likely to fight for every ball and try to make the best out of every opportunity, so it sure will be a good event to attend and perhaps a historic night in Welsh football history. With the most recent fixture against Ireland, in February this year, ending in a 2–0 win for Wales, it is hopeful that this could be a historic play off for the Welsh women. If you want to be there, it will be hosted at Cardiff City stadium, on the 29th of November, so make sure to get down to the stadium and support the team and be part of a potential historic night in Welsh football.