Girls in Green Stun Poland 3-2 in World Cup Qualifier to Boost Ireland's Campaign
The Republic of Ireland women's national football team delivered a thrilling 3-2 victory over Poland in Gdańsk on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, in a pulsating World Cup qualifying match that marked Ireland's first points in their 2027 Women's World Cup campaign and sent supporters into raptures.
Goals from Emily Murphy, Katie McCabe, and Marissa Sheva secured a famous win for Carla Ward's side at the Polsat Plus Arena Gdańsk, despite a tense finish after Poland pulled back to 3-2 in the 78th minute.
Background
Ireland entered the match under pressure, having yet to register a point in their qualifying group. Manager Carla Ward had emphasised the need for at least four points from the two games against Poland — the second of which takes place at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on Saturday, 18 April. The match was played on a challenging pitch described as "dry, bumpy, and scarred with divots."
Key Developments
Emily Murphy opened the scoring in the 12th minute, converting a pass from Marissa Sheva. Katie McCabe doubled Ireland's lead in the 20th minute with a superb left-footed volley from outside the box after a corner kick. Poland pulled one back through Tanja Pawollek's header in the 43rd minute, but Sheva restored Ireland's two-goal advantage in the 59th minute with a shot into the top left corner.
Ewa Pajor, Poland's captain, chipped the ball over the Irish goalkeeper in the 78th minute to set up a nervy finale. McCabe then blazed a penalty over the bar in the 82nd minute, but Ireland held on for a crucial win. Murphy was named Player of the Match. Denise O'Sullivan, returning from a knee injury, played a significant role in midfield throughout.
Why It Matters
The victory is a significant boost for Ireland's hopes of finishing third in their qualifying group, which could lead to a more favourable route through the autumn play-offs. It also demonstrates the growing quality and resilience of the Girls in Green under Ward's management, with the team showing the ability to hold on under pressure in a hostile away environment.
What's Next
Ireland face Poland again at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on Saturday, 18 April. A second win would put Ireland in a strong position in the group. Full match report available from RTÉ Sport.
