The Republic of Ireland look to prolong what looks an inevitable reality that Sweden are to qualify for the 2023 World Cup, Vera Pauw’s side taking on the second in the world ranked outfit in Gothenburg at 5:30 pm.
A draw or a win would see the Peter Gerhardsson managed team through to next year’s competition in Australia and New Zealand, while The Girls in Green will strive to capitalise on other recent group A occurrences.
Main rivals for second spot Finland dropped points during their 1-1 draw with Slovakia last week, putting Ireland in a vicarious position in the table. After their away victory in Helsinki last year they fell victim to the same fate against Slovakia before amassing an unforgettable 11-0 triumph over Georgia in Tallaght to close out their 2021 campaign.
This means they now sit in second in the group table on seven points, level with Finland and behind Sweden on 18, although the Irish squad have games in hand on both of those opponents.
Tonight’s home unit are full of confidence approaching the game having released a “How to” guide to overcome their tactics alongside their jersey launch last week. With the likes of Arsenal’s Stina Blackstenius and Chelsea’s Magdalena Eriksson and Real Madrid’s Kosovare Asllani they will pose plenty of danger as they look to maintain their two year unbeaten streak.
Ireland too though possess plenty of quality in their ranks, captain Katie McCabe trying to rile her teammates up for the match. Including Leanne Kiernan and Niamh Fahey who recently aided Liverpool’s ascent out of the WSL2 as well as player of the match regular Denise O’Sullivan and centre back stalwart Louise Quinn will ensure they put their best foot forward in this evening’s clash.
There is expected to be over 12,000 fans in attendance but the game is also available to watch live on RTE2 here at home with coverage starting at 5pm. There will also be live updates here with FinalWhistle.ie.
Alanna Cunnane
Alanna is currently pursuing her studies in journalism at Dublin City University and writes regularly for her local media outlets in Sligo.