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Ireland Women Face Belgium in Crucial nations League Play-off Amidst Uncertainty
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The Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team prepares for a pivotal UEFA Nations League promotion/relegation play-off against Belgium, but faces uncertainty surrounding head coach Carla Ward‘s availability due to a family emergency. assistant coach Alan Mahon has stepped in to handle media duties and assures a seamless transition should Ward be unable to lead the team.
Key Updates & Team News
Mahon emphasized the players’ responsibility in driving the team forward, stating, “The players will drive it. The way we’ve worked it, nothing will change. The plan is in place, we just have to make sure we execute it.”
Several players are currently sidelined due to injury:
- Courtney Brosnan: knee injury
- Megan Connolly: Injury (details unspecified)
- Leanne Kiernan: Injury (details unspecified)
However,there’s positive news wiht the return of Jess Ziu and Jamie Finn following lengthy ACL injury recoveries.
Mahon also dismissed concerns about the form of key players Katie McCabe and Denise O’Sullivan, both of whom have faced recent challenges with playing time and fitness at their clubs.
Player Fitness & availability
| Player | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Katie McCabe | Fit | Recently out of favour at Arsenal, but deemed “fit as a fiddle” by Mahon. |
| Denise O’Sullivan | Fit | Returned from a knee issue at North Carolina Courage, described as a “Duracell battery” by Mahon. |
| Courtney Brosnan | Out | Knee injury. |
| Megan Connolly | Out | Injury (details unspecified). |
| Leanne Kiernan | Out | Injury (details unspecified). |
| Jess Ziu | Returning | Recovered from ACL injury. |
| Jamie Finn | Returning | Recovered from ACL injury. |
Aviva Stadium & Fan Engagement
The first leg will be played at the Aviva Stadium, marking only the fifth time the Irish Women’s team has played at the venue. Mahon expressed a desire to increase attendance, stating, “We have to try and get bums on seats… We want a big atmosphere.” He acknowledged the previous 2-1 loss to Wales at the Aviva and hopes for a more supportive crowd this time.
Opposition & Preparation
