Ireland beat Finland to reach World Cup play-offs

The Republic of Ireland women’s national team have secured a play-off berth as they bid to qualify for the World Cup for the first time.

The Girls in Green defeated Finland 1-0, thanks to a second-half goal from substitute Lily Agg, to secure second place in Group A with one game left to play.

Vera Pauw’s team overcame a sluggish start, and buoyed by a record home crowd of 6,952 at Tallaght Stadium, grew into the contest. Agg’s header handed them a deserved lead, and hardened from past heartache, they were not to be denied as they held out for a famous victory.

Opportunity now knocks for the Irish, as they begin to dream of Australia and New Zealand in 2023, but they must first finish the group with away trip to Slovakia on Tuesday.

Although they are already assured of second place, an away victory next week could enhance their seeding for the next stage.