Women’s World Cup: Republic of Ireland defeated in debut by hosts Australia

Women’s World Cup co-hosts Australia have started their campaign with a win over debutants Republic of Ireland.

Steph Catley scored the only goal of the game from the penalty spot to secure the three points, after a resolute performance from the Irish defence.

Australia started on the front foot but a resolute Irish defence limited their chances in the first half.

Hayley Raso headed wide from a corner and Caitlin Foord hit the side-netting as Ireland frustrated the hosts.

The Matildas finally made the breakthrough after the restart though, when Raso was clipped from behind in the penalty area. Catley stepped up to fire the ball into the top corner to open Australia’s account for the tournament.

Katrina Gorry and Foord both had good chances to double the lead as Australia enjoyed more time in possession in the second half.

Ireland struggled to find a way back into the match but came close when Katie McCabe’s corner was tipped over by Mackenzie Arnold.

Their final chance came in stoppage time when Lucy Quinn was taken down on the edge of the penalty area. Megan Connolly came close to finding the back of the net but Arnold was there once again to deflect the ball behind.

Ireland will continue searching for their first World Cup win against Canada on Wednesday, with Australia meeting Nigeria the day after.

The other match of the day was also separated by a penalty as co-hosts New Zealand stunned Norway.

Cover Photo: Flying the Flag by Mertie used under license by CC BY 2.0.