Ward lauds Ireland’s professionalism after Astana domination

Chloe Mustaki’s opening goal, followed by three assists, capped an 8‑0 demolition of Kazakhstan in a match at the Astana Arena on Friday, prompting Republic of Ireland manager Carla Ward to hail her side’s professionalism after the first‑leg World Cup play‑off semi‑final.

Ireland’s overwhelming victory

The Girls in Green cruised to an 8‑0 win that ends the tie as a contest. Ireland sit 77 places above Kazakhstan in the world rankings, making them heavy favourites even without star pair Katie McCabe, who was suspended, and Denise O’Sullivan, who was rested.

Carla Ward noted that McCabe, O’Sullivan, Marissa Sheva and Jess Ziu could all return for the second leg in Cork, intensifying competition for places. Their availability adds depth as the team prepares for the decisive match.

“The girls deserve an awful lot of credit,” Ward told, adding that the squad avoided complacency and approached the game as if they were facing the world’s best. She also mentioned that the second half offered a few spaces they could have exploited.

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Mustaki shines in Astana

Chloe Mustaki, stepping in for McCabe at left wing‑back, earned player‑of‑the‑match honours with a goal and three assists. “It felt good,” she said, admitting she was nervous filling McCabe’s shoes but praised the team’s professional performance.

Mustaki added that Ireland aim to qualify for the World Cup in Brazil and will face either Belgium or Poland in November, describing the upcoming challenge as a “big opponent”. She stressed the need to “turn the screw again” and improve day‑in, day‑out.

The second leg will be played at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Tuesday, though Ward expects little competitive edge given the first‑leg margin. Ireland’s next hurdle will be a two‑leg play‑off final against either Belgium or Poland.

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“Since I arrived I wanted us to be front‑footed and show personality in the final third,” Ward explained, noting that good teams can win in different ways. She concluded that the side must improve continuously, especially with three cup finals still to contest.