Ward Confirms McCabe and O'Sullivan Will Play in Second Leg Against Kazakhstan
Ireland manager Carla Ward says Katie McCabe and Denise O'Sullivan will feature in the second leg of the Women's World Cup play-off despite an 8-0 first-leg lead.
Republic of Ireland manager Carla Ward has confirmed that captain Katie McCabe and vice-captain Denise O'Sullivan will play in the second leg of the Women's World Cup play-off against Kazakhstan at Páirc Uí Chaoimh, even though Ireland hold an 8-0 aggregate lead from the first leg in Astana.
McCabe missed the first leg through suspension, while O'Sullivan did not travel because the match was played on an artificial surface. Ward dismissed any suggestion the experienced pair would be rested, stating they are among Ireland's greatest players and would improve any team. She emphasised the squad's strong competition for places, noting that players like Jamie Finn and Abbie Larkin impressed in the first leg. "We're a bloody good football team," Ward said, adding that the internal push can only help ahead of a tougher play-off final against Belgium or Poland.
In the first leg, Kyra Carusa scored twice, with Chloe Mustaki, Emily Murphy, Abbie Larkin, Jamie Finn, Shanade Hopcroft and Jessie Stapleton also on the scoresheet. Kazakhstan captain Yulia Myasnikova was sent off after 33 minutes.
Cork native O'Sullivan is set to win her 133rd cap on Tuesday, moving within one of Emma Byrne's record. She expressed her delight at returning to Páirc Uí Chaoimh, where Ireland have won all three of their matches. "It's really special, my family being here," she said, praising the atmosphere created by the Cork support.
O'Sullivan also addressed being left out of the trip to Kazakhstan, revealing she was unhappy but understood the decision due to persistent knee problems. She appreciated the staff's caution and was pleased with the team's professional performance in her absence.
Supporters have reacted positively to Ward's confirmation, with many expressing excitement at seeing the experienced duo back in the team, though some questioned the necessity given the commanding lead. Ireland are heavy favourites to progress to the play-off final, where they will face either Belgium or Poland as they aim to reach back-to-back World Cups.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
