Ireland's World Cup hopes surge as McCabe fires Cork win

With a powerful strike from Katie McCabe in Cork, the Republic of Ireland have secured a place in the final play‑off round of the 2027 Women’s World Cup, leaving them just two matches from a repeat appearance in Brazil. The win, coming on Friday, caps an eight‑goal haul against Kazakhstan and underlines manager Carla Ward’s momentum.

McCabe’s impact and the road ahead

McCabe, the 31‑year‑old captain, returned to the starting line‑up after serving a suspension in Astana and immediately made her mark with a thunderous finish. She told RTE Sport, “Two games and we’re going to Brazil, but full focus over the next six weeks. We need to lock in and be ready.” Her goal was one of four scored on the night, contributing to the eight‑goal aggregate that saw Ireland cruise through.

Ward’s side had rebounded from a 4‑0 home loss to Slovenia in February 2025, climbing from that setback to dominate Kazakhstan in the second leg. The Irish have also progressed in the Nations League, beating Belgium to reach League A and defeating the Netherlands and Poland in previous play‑off encounters.

Poland looms as the next obstacle

Poland, who eliminated Belgium on penalties after a 3‑3 draw, will be Ireland’s final hurdle. Despite losing both qualifying games to the Irish in April, they remain a dangerous opponent, bolstered by Barcelona striker Ewa Pajor.

McCabe urges a packed Aviva Stadium as Ireland chase World Cup spot

McCabe remains confident, noting the team’s recent experience against top‑10 sides and the need for “full focus” as the November fixtures approach. She added that her recent move to Chelsea, after ending her Arsenal contract, has been a “breath of fresh air” and will only aid her performances for country.

Ward reflected on the squad’s growth, saying, “We’ve put ourselves in a really good position… the girls have done brilliantly. Once Carla came in it’s a transition period and it takes a bit of time to find our feet.” The manager highlighted the importance of maintaining momentum after the heavy defeat to Slovenia two years ago.

Ward pushes for record Aviva crowd as Poland looms in LOI showdown

Having qualified for their first World Cup in Australia in 2023, the Republic of Ireland now aim to repeat the feat, with McCabe promising that the team will “stick together” and give everything in November to secure a place in Brazil.