Katie McCabe, captain of the Republic of Ireland’s team, confessed her heartbreak after Canada managed to come back from a one-goal deficit, leading to the dismissal of her team from the World Cup.
McCabe was responsible for the Republic’s inaugural World Cup goal, her corner shot finding its way into the net in the first four minutes of the match.
But the excitement soon turned into a “bittersweet” feeling, as shared by the Arsenal star, following the Republic’s departure from the tournament.
“I feel deeply saddened for our team as I believed we were worthy of more from this match,” McCabe relayed to RTE.
Following their 1-0 loss to Australia in Sydney in their initial Group B match, the Republic had to secure at least a tie to dodge an untimely exit on their World Cup debut.
They got off to a good start against Canada, with McCabe’s impressive corner giving Vera Pauw’s team a promising beginning.
Despite the Irish having opportunities to expand their lead during an active first half, Canada retaliated just before half-time when Megan Connolly inadvertently redirected Julia Grosso’s cross into her own net.
Canada 2-1 Republic of Ireland: Game Highlights
The Olympic champions’ Adriana Leon managed a solid second goal, eight minutes post-intermission, shattering the Republic’s prospects ahead of their concluding group match against Nigeria in Brisbane on Monday.
“We drew significant positives from our second half against Australia, choosing to attack and back ourselves upfront since we know we possess quality and pace on the wings as well,” a 27-year-old McCabe stated.
“We intended to begin the match with high energy, putting pressure on Canada, and I believe we accomplished that. It’s about seizing those moments as well.
“We felt in command of the game. I believe the deflection was unfortunate. I haven’t revisited it, but it felt like a low blow just before half-time. It would have been comforting going in 1-0 up.
“But we remained optimistic about scoring another goal in the second half, but obviously, they managed to score then.”
‘We Are Aware of the Level Now’
Despite their tournament debut concluding in disappointment, McCabe emphasizes that the team is “eager for more,” having witnessed the standard needed to prosper at the highest level.
“Leading these girls is an unparalleled honor and privilege. We delivered a solid performance, with young players stepping in, like Larko [Abbie Larkin], they’re the future of this team.
“I am immensely proud of everyone, including the staff. This has been a collective effort. We have worked incredibly hard to reach here, but the journey doesn’t stop. We are now aware of the required level. We’ve gained tournament experience and are now even more motivated.
“Against Nigeria, we aim to conclude this tournament on a positive note and give something back to our fans, who have been incredibly supportive.”
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Women’s World Cup
Who is Katie McCabe?
Katie McCabe is a professional footballer who captains the Republic of Ireland’s team. She is also a player for Arsenal.
What was the result of the Republic of Ireland’s game against Canada in the Women’s World Cup?
The Republic of Ireland lost to Canada with a score of 2-1, ending their debut run in the Women’s World Cup.
Who scored the first World Cup goal for the Republic of Ireland?
Katie McCabe scored the Republic’s inaugural World Cup goal, a corner shot that found its way into the net in the first four minutes of the match against Canada.
What was the Republic of Ireland’s strategy in the match against Canada?
The Republic of Ireland intended to begin the match with high energy and put pressure on Canada. They planned to seize their opportunities, but unfortunately, they couldn’t maintain their early lead.
Who is looking promising as a future player for the Republic of Ireland’s team?
Abbie Larkin, also known as Larko, is mentioned as a young player stepping up and being seen as the future of the Republic of Ireland’s team.
What are Katie McCabe’s thoughts on the team’s performance in the World Cup?
Despite their tournament debut concluding in disappointment, McCabe emphasized that the team is “eager for more,” having witnessed the standard needed to prosper at the highest level. She is proud of the team’s performance and credits it as a collective effort. She also expressed hopes of ending the tournament on a high note in their match against Nigeria.
More about Women’s World Cup
- Katie McCabe’s Profile
- Women’s World Cup Tournament News
- Republic of Ireland’s Women’s National Team
- Canada Women’s National Soccer Team
- Match Report: Canada vs Republic of Ireland
5 comments
i can’t believe we scored our first World Cup goal and still didn’t win :(( it just shows you how unpredictable football can be…but i have faith in our girls for the next one!
Canada’s comeback was a real shocker. Felt for McCabe though, you could tell it hit hard. They’ve got potential tho, just need more experience on the big stage.
tough break for the Irish, you can tell they wanted it bad. McCabe is a star, no doubt about it. Arsenal is lucky to have her!
katie mccabe, an absolute legend!! our team did us proud even though it didn’t go our way. Let’s end on a high against Nigeria, c’mon Ireland!
Gutted for our girls, but still so proud!! Katie McCabe is a real inspiration to young players across Ireland. We’ll get ’em next time!!