The Daily Star Ireland
If the first leg of the Republic of Ireland’s Euro 2025 play-off against Wales seemed like a warm-up, then brace yourself for a full-blown clash at Aviva Stadium tomorrow night. The match will be live on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player from 7pm.
Friday’s game in Cardiff was tense and engaging, but the intensity waned in the final 20 minutes as both teams seemed content to draw and head to Dublin on equal footing.
Both Ireland and Wales are eager for victory, and neither side will shy away from a physical contest.
The first leg had its share of heated moments, indicating that the decisive match at Lansdowne Road will be fiercely contested. A confrontation between Ruesha Littlejohn and Jess Fishlock raised tensions, and Katie McCabe had some clashes with Liverpool’s Ceri Holland.
McCabe remarked this afternoon that the encounters involved more cheap shots than genuine tackles, expressing readiness for whatever game Wales wants to play. She emphasized that Ireland knows what’s at stake and is prepared to give their all.
The FAI announced that over 25,000 tickets have been sold, ensuring strong support for the Girls in Green.
Ireland’s head coach Eileen Gleeson reported no new injuries and expressed confidence that her team has more to offer. She acknowledged areas needing improvement, particularly in creating and converting chances. However, she felt the game evolved as anticipated, with both teams displaying expected strategies and strengths.
With little separating the teams in terms of skill, Gleeson recognizes that minor details could decide the outcome. Having home advantage is significant, although Welsh boss Rhian Wilkinson suggested it might add pressure on Ireland. Gleeson, however, sees it as an opportunity to harness the power of a supportive crowd expected to reach 25,000 to 30,000.
Gleeson focused on staying task-oriented and embracing the home crowd’s energy, calling it a privilege and an honor to play in front of such support. She emphasized respecting Wales and their abilities while managing the game effectively.
McCabe shared this sentiment, noting that the sold-out tickets and home support are a tremendous boost for the team.
Ireland has been practicing penalties in case the match extends to a shootout, though they hope it won’t come to that. Gleeson aims for more offensive involvement from McCabe, and fans can expect to see her take long-range shots if the opportunity arises.
McCabe highlighted the team’s collective effort in creating scoring opportunities, pointing to Littlejohn’s long-range goal in Cardiff as an example of their capability. She stressed the importance of the entire team getting into good positions to score.
With preparations in place, both on and off the field, the stage is set for a decisive and intense battle. Let the contest begin.
