Ireland's Women's National Team Set for Nations League Challenge
The Republic of Ireland is gearing up for their 2027 UEFA Women's Nations League A campaign, starting with a double header of home fixtures in March against Switzerland and Norway. The opening match will see Carla Ward's side welcome Switzerland on Tuesday, March 2, followed by a clash with Norway just four days later on Saturday, March 6.
The first away challenge will be a significant one, as the Girls in Green will face the reigning world champions, Spain, on Tuesday, April 20. This match marks the first encounter between the two nations in over a decade, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the fixture. Following the match against Spain, Ireland will travel to Switzerland on Saturday, April 24.
The campaign will culminate in the June window, where Ireland will host Spain again on Friday, June 11, before concluding the group stage with an away match against Norway on Tuesday, June 15. Specific match venues and kick-off times for all six fixtures will be announced later.
In the lead-up to the Nations League, Ireland will also compete against Poland in a World Cup play-off final, with the first leg scheduled for Tuesday, March 1, in Gdansk, and the return leg at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday, December 5.
Ireland's ambitions in the Nations League
As they enter the Nations League, Ireland is looking to solidify their status as a top European side. A successful campaign could also lead to potential qualification for the LA 2028 Olympics, should they top their group. Head coach Carla Ward expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming matches, particularly the opportunity to face Spain, stating, "Who doesn't want to play against the world champions? From the moment I took this job, I’ve said time and time again that we want to test ourselves against the very best, and this is our opportunity. Spain are the best team in the world right now; their quality is exceptional and nobody really comes close to them."
Here's the Real Score
Ward also acknowledged the challenges posed by Norway and Switzerland, noting their strong squads and recent performances. "Norway have real prestige as former world champions, and on paper they possess one of the strongest squads in world football. They're also managed by a good friend of mine in Gemma Grainger, so I'm really looking forward to going up against her. Switzerland are another really difficult prospect, just off the back of a solid campaign and very capable, developing side who have picked up strong results recently."
As the fixtures approach, the Republic of Ireland's Women's National Team is poised to make a significant impact in the Nations League, with their sights set on both European success and Olympic qualification.
