The Republic of Ireland kept their automatic World Cup qualification hopes alive with a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Netherlands in a rain-soaked qualifier at Pairc Ui Chaoimh in Cork.
Kyra Carusa opened the scoring with a first-time finish in the first half, before Dominique Janssen equalized from the penalty spot in the second half.
Abbie Larkin restored Ireland’s lead with a deflected shot, but substitute Victoria Pelova equalized again for the Dutch late in the match.
However, in a dramatic finish, substitute Amber Barrett secured the win for Ireland with a goal from a corner in the 89th minute.
Coach Carla Ward’s team can secure a spot in their second consecutive World Cup and top the group by defeating France in their final qualifier on Tuesday. Even if they draw or lose in Grenoble, the Republic of Ireland is assured of a seeded position in the playoff round this autumn.
Barrett Scores Dramatic Late Goal
Barrett scored the winning goal in the 89th minute [Getty Images]
In the match, the Netherlands controlled possession early on and came close with a shot from Barcelona’s Esme Brugts, who missed the target. The first goal came against the run of play in the 18th minute when Larkin fed Carusa, whose low shot found the back netting despite the slippery conditions.
The Dutch nearly equalized quickly as Lynn Wilms struck the crossbar with her long-range effort.
In the second half, Ireland’s goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan made critical saves to keep them in the game, denying point-blank shots from Lineth Beerensteyn and tipping Jackie Groenen’s drive over the bar.
The Dutch finally equalized in the 69th minute when Aoife Mannion fouled Groenen in the box, enabling Janssen to convert the penalty. But Ireland responded just a minute later as Larkin scored from a cross, putting them back in front.
Pelova would bring the Netherlands level again with a composed finish before Barrett’s decisive goal sealed the victory.
Despite Leanne Kiernan’s dismissal for two yellow cards late in the game, Ireland held strong for a remarkable win.
Analysis: Resilient Republic of Ireland Achieve Major Victory
Kyra Carusa and Abbie Larkin both scored successfully and impressed against the Netherlands [Getty Images]
Ward praised her team’s resilience, echoing earlier remarks about their performance against Poland in March as a “proper Irish performance.” This match showcased great character as they overcame multiple setbacks against the Dutch.
The Republic of Ireland exhibited tenacity and defensive strength in challenging conditions, absorbing Dutch pressure while effectively countering when opportunities arose.
The solid defensive trio of Anna Patten, Caitlin Hayes, and Chloe Mustaki frustrated the Netherlands’ star-laden attack.
Ireland displayed clinical finishing at crucial moments, with Carusa, Larkin, and Barrett demonstrating sharp goalscoring instincts. Larkin seized her opportunity in place of the suspended Emily Murphy, while Carusa established herself as a significant contributor in big matches.
Barrett again proved her worth off the bench, delivering a crucial goal just like in the previous World Cup qualifying campaign.
The team’s ability to perform without star player Denise O’Sullivan, also suspended, is a testament to their depth. With both O’Sullivan and Murphy returning for the match against France on Tuesday, the Republic of Ireland heads to Grenoble filled with confidence, aiming to secure another remarkable result and make history.