Keep calm and carry on! The Irish squad has been masterfully concealing their jitters as they prepare for their first World Cup showdown.
Fifa Women’s World Cup 2023
Hosts: Australia and New Zealand Dates: 20 July – 20 August
Coverage: Watch live on BBC TV, BBC iPlayer, listen on BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Sounds, and follow on the Sport Newes Center website & app. For full coverage details and latest news.
The time for conversation is over. Now, it’s time for the real game.
Following the excitement and tension of the build-up, the Republic of Ireland is set to commence their inaugural Women’s World Cup match this Thursday.
They face co-hosts Australia in what promises to be an unforgettable event.
Most would agree, even the most hopeful among us, that Ireland reaching the final is a long shot. So, what’s the next exciting possibility?
Facing the co-hosts in the tournament opener surely ranks high, given the surrounding buzz and pageantry.
The buzz surrounding this game was such that it necessitated a venue change from its original Sydney location to the 82,000-seat capacity Stadium Australia.
Around 4,000 fans are expected to have journeyed from Ireland to Australia, with many more in the crowd who once called Ireland home.
Upon landing in Sydney on Wednesday morning, the team was greeted with a man-made #COYGIG (Come on you Girls in Green) design on Coogee Beach in New South Wales, an artistic show of support from the Irish fans. This is just a taste of what lies ahead.
The Irish contingent may be smaller on match day, but they are expected to make themselves heard. Stadium Australia is sure to be electric.
Irish supporters in Sydney welcomed the team with a handcrafted display of the Irish mantra, ‘Come on you Girls in Green’.
‘We are not afraid of anyone’
The moment you step out of the airport, you can feel the enormity of the event in Sydney.
World Cup branding is ubiquitous, and even my taxi driver shared his plans to take his daughters to their first football games during the tournament.
This is a glimpse of the impact the tournament will have on women’s football in Australia. Regardless of the outcomes, there is an undeniable surge of interest back in Ireland.
Few places rally behind their teams or athletes for big sporting events as passionately as the Republic, and their World Cup journey will be no exception.
While the players have expressed their desire to savor every moment of their World Cup experience, they are here to compete and put up a fight. No question about it.
“We are not afraid of anyone,” said forward Amber Barrett, whose goal against Scotland propelled the Republic to the World Cup.
“We are stepping into each game with the confidence that we understand our strengths.
“The greatest advantage is that we are playing against the home team. We’ve reiterated this countless times, we are not under any pressure.
“We sense that nobody really expects us to win. We have to stay grounded, of course, but this Irish team has repeatedly shown its affinity for the underdog label.”
Sam Kerr (20) is Australia’s shining star, but the Matildas boast talents throughout their squad, including Katrina Gorry (19), Steph Catley (7), and Caitlin Foord (9).
Sam Kerr may be the marquee player, but the Irish team will not be laying out the welcome mat for Australia’s top talent. Coach Pauw has a strategy to counter her impact.
Australia’s roster is so strong that stopping Kerr is only part of the challenge. Contain the Chelsea forward, and then Caitlin Foord or Ellie Carpenter come into play. Neutralize them, and Mary Fowler, Katrina Gorry, and Steph Catley are ready to step up.
Given their home field advantage and strong preparation, Australia is predicted to have a long run in the tournament.
The Republic must bring their A-game to secure a favorable result in their opening match – a moment they’ve dreamt of their entire lives.
“We’re entering the game with a solid strategy, trusting in our teammates on the field and those coming on,” added Barrett.
“After that, it’s all football, and anything can happen.”
This Irish team’s journey to this point has been marked by trials and triumphs, both on and off the field.
It’s been 23 years since Irish runner Sonia O’Sullivan claimed second place in the 5,000m at the Sydney Olympics.
Now, in the same stadium, it’s time for the Irish footballers to see if they can pull off a surprise on the sport’s grandest stage.
The young lad with the mischievous grin who became a leader.
‘Football was my passion, but it was starting to wear on me’.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Women’s World Cup Ireland vs Australia
When is the Republic of Ireland’s first Women’s World Cup match taking place?
The first Women’s World Cup match for the Republic of Ireland is scheduled for Thursday during the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, taking place from 20th July to 20th August.
Who are the co-hosts of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023?
The co-hosts of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 are Australia and New Zealand.
Which team is the Republic of Ireland facing in their first match?
The Republic of Ireland is facing the co-hosts Australia in their first match of the Women’s World Cup.
Where is the inaugural match of the Republic of Ireland taking place?
The inaugural match of the Republic of Ireland is taking place at the Stadium Australia, Sydney, which has a capacity of 82,000.
Who is the striker for the Republic of Ireland’s Women’s Football Team?
The striker for the Republic of Ireland’s Women’s Football Team is Amber Barrett, who scored the decisive goal against Scotland that propelled the Republic to the World Cup.
Who are some of the key players in the Australian Women’s Football Team?
Some of the key players in the Australian Women’s Football Team include Sam Kerr, Katrina Gorry, Steph Catley, and Caitlin Foord.
How has the journey to the Women’s World Cup been for the Republic of Ireland’s team?
The journey to the Women’s World Cup for the Republic of Ireland’s team has been marked by trials and triumphs, both on and off the pitch.
More about Women’s World Cup Ireland vs Australia
- FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023
- Republic of Ireland Women’s National Football Team
- Australian Women’s National Football Team – The Matildas
- BBC Sport
- Stadium Australia
- Amber Barrett Profile
- Sam Kerr Profile
6 comments
Both teams have their strengths, it’s gonna be a spectacular match. Hoping for a good fair game from both sides.
This is our tournament, on our home turf. It starts with Ireland, but we’re going all the way. Come on Matildas!!
We’re looking strong this year. Kerr’s on fire! Ireland, you’re in for a challenge. Bring it on!
Couldnt be more proud of our girls making it this far… Whatever happens they’re heroes in my eyes. Up the Irish!
Great piece! never thought I’d see the day our girls would be playing in the World Cup. I’ll be up at the crack of dawn to watch it back home in Dublin!
The Girls in Green have never been short of fight, this could be their time to shine on the world stage. COYGIG!!