Oct 30,2024
The Republic of Ireland's mission to make a first Women's European Championships has boiled down to an international derby against Wales in a mouthwatering play-off final.
While Ireland were swatting aside Georgia 9-0 on aggregate, the Welsh had to battle past Slovakia after extra-time. It was hard going for Rhian Wilkinson's side, but they will have no fear of the Girls in Green.
Eight months ago, Wales came to Dublin and impressively defeated their hosts 2-0 in a friendly.
But head coach Eileen Gleeson believes her team have made significant forward strides since that game, and said they are targeting an "incredible" night of glory when the countries collide at Aviva Stadium in December's second leg.
"It's good that we played Wales earlier in the year," said Gleeson.
"I'd go so far as to say the loss was a great learning moment, and it was always about context. It was the second game of a window of two friendlies. We'd just played Italy... we'd a bit of a lag, and that game, we started a different 11.
"Players were missing, Denise (O'Sullivan) was missing. There's a lot to learn from that. Obviously Wales are a solid, strong team... but I think the squad is stronger and it's just about keeping everybody fit."
Gleeson couldn't contain her excitement about the prospect of leading her players out at the Aviva again for what will essentially be a cup final.
Ireland, as a seeded country, are on home soil for the second leg, with the first leg set to be played at Cardiff City Stadium.
"It's incredible," Gleeson added. "It's super exciting. It was so important to be seeded and to have that home game (in the second leg). What a night that will be. It's straight from here into full-prep mode. To finish off and qualify in the Aviva would be amazing.
"Every game is different. In these two games we knew we'd dominate possession. Wales are a higher ranked opposition, similar profile to us in terms of key players and in terms of the level players play at, so we'll approach that game slightly different.
"As much as it was difficult in the draw for the Euro qualifiers, that also gave us great experience against top teams, and finding ways to keep clean sheets, finding ways to test how far we could get up the pitch, how open we could be. That was a huge experience.
"I feel like there was a 360 development throughout that campaign, starting with the first game against France and finishing with the win against France. That was hugely beneficial."
Player of the Match Julie-Ann Russell talked up the qualities Wales possess while embracing the prospect of playing in a match of such huge significance.
"Wales are a quality team," said the Galway United attacker, cradling baby Rosie in her arms as she fulfilled her post-match media duties.
"They have a lot of players in the WSL and so a lot of the girls here would be playing against them so they will know their strengths and weaknesses. I have full faith in Eileen and the staff to have the tactics for us ready to follow through on.
"There is such an interest in women's football which is phenomenal. It is great to be a part of it. It is such a good atmosphere here in Tallaght and to get such a big crowd on a Tuesday evening it was brilliant.
"Hopefully we can get more to the Aviva and maybe a big travelling crowd to Wales as that isn't that far away."
The chances of that are high.
Interest in this showdown will be intense, as Ireland look to break down another barrier by reaching a first ever Euros.
"It has been a total whirlwind and I'm just taking it game by game and enjoying and relishing every moment of it," added Russell.
"I will play any where on the pitch. I don't mind if it is up front or on the wing. Wherever Eileen puts me I'll do a job.
"We are such a strong squad, really good depth. Everyone on the bench could be starters. It is a pain for Eileen to pick that full squad but it is such a good environment, such good vibes in the camp. Everyone is just wants to qualify for the Euros."
