Republic of Ireland seek historic win over France in World Cup qualifier
Republic of Ireland face France in Grenoble on Tuesday, where a victory would secure automatic qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup and complete a historic upset.
The Irish currently sit second in Group A2, trailing the group leaders by a single point heading into the final fixture.
Only the group winners will guarantee their place at the upcoming tournament in Brazil.
Manager Carla Ward has already seen her squad secure a seeded play-off spot for the autumn.
Defying the odds in Group A2
A victory would make the Girls in Green the first fourth-seeded team in League A to top a qualification group.
“No matter what happens this group can be incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved so far and it’s important we don’t lose sight of that,” said Ward.
“No pot four team stays in League A let alone wins three games and wins the group. We’ve written our own records and this would be the biggest one, no doubt about it.”
The campaign began poorly for the fourth seeds, who suffered consecutive 2-1 defeats against both Les Bleues and the Netherlands in March.
Momentum building ahead of showdown
However, consecutive victories over Poland in April revitalised their hopes of securing a top spot.
The team carried that positive momentum into June, displaying immense resilience to defeat the Dutch 3-2 in torrential rain at Cork on Friday.
That dramatic win set up Tuesday’s winner-takes-all clash against the French national side.
“Everyone called it the group of death but we saw it as an opportunity for this group to show what they’re about,” the Republic of Ireland manager added.
Thriving as massive underdogs
Ward acknowledges her team arrive as major outsiders against a heavily favoured home side boasting a star-studded squad.
With the hosts facing immense pressure to perform in front of their own fans, the visitors believe they can capitalise.
“I expect the French to come after us but I don’t think they will underestimate us, they were really respectful when we played them last time.”
“The pressure is off and I mean it when I say it, there is a real calm and a real focus on the game.”