Republic of Ireland defeat Poland to boost World Cup qualifying hopes
Marissa Sheva’s first-half strike secured a vital 1-0 victory for the Republic of Ireland against Poland at the Aviva Stadium, cementing their grip on third place in World Cup qualifying Group A2.
Carla Ward’s squad endured a tense evening in Dublin to grind out their second triumph over the Poles in the space of four days.
The hosts entered the fixture having edged a thrilling 3-2 encounter in Gdansk on Tuesday, establishing crucial momentum for this return leg.
Sheva strikes after early scare
The visitors almost silenced the 18,000-strong crowd when Nadia Kreyzman’s cutback found Ewa Pajor, who rippled the side-netting with a fierce first-time effort.
That early warning sparked the home team into immediate action at the opposite end of the pitch.
Denise O’Sullivan’s deflected delivery fell to Emily Murphy, who rattled the crossbar with a sliding attempt before Sheva blazed the rebound wide.
Following a goal-line clearance from Oliwia Wos to deny Aoife Mannion, the deadlock was finally broken four minutes before the interval.
Kyra Carusa drove powerfully down the left flank, forcing a touch from goalkeeper Kinga Szemik that fell perfectly for the arriving midfielder to tap in her fifth international goal.
Holding firm for a crucial advantage
The home side pushed for a cushion after the restart, with Szemik parrying away a long-range drive from Megan Connolly.
Their best chance of the second period fell to the influential O’Sullivan, who skilfully lifted the ball over a defender before volleying against the woodwork.
A defensive mix-up in the closing minutes presented Pajor with a late opportunity, but the striker scuffed her shot as the hosts held firm.
Prior to this international window, manager Carla Ward stated her clear objective was to secure six points and take control of the race for third place.
Having successfully navigated tight encounters against a dangerous Polish side, the manager will be thrilled by her team’s resilience.
This flawless week leaves the Irish holding a commanding five-point advantage over their Group A2 rivals with just two matches remaining.
Securing third place would mathematically guarantee a more favourable play-off draw for next year’s tournament in Brazil.
