Julie-Ann Russell of Republic of Ireland has a shot on goal despite the attention of Rhiannon Roberts of Wales
Here is how the Ireland players fared in their Euro 2025 play-off first-leg away to Wales as Eileen Gleeson’s side take a 1-1 draw back to Lansdowne Road for Tuesday’s second-leg in their bid to reach a first European Championship finals.
Courtney Brosnan 7
The Everton goalkeeper was well beaten for Lily Woodham’s opener, but she imposed herself in the air, was quick off her line and made two good second-half saves. Solid night.
Heather Payne 6
Started over Abbie Larkin at right wing-back. Some good work on 30 minutes set up a fine cross. Contributed to the Irish cause going forward as well as at the back.
Anna Patten 7
A solid 90 minutes from the Aston Villa defender on her ninth successive start. Confident in the air and on the ground and wasn’t afraid to step out from centre-half.
Niamh Fahey 5
The Liverpool defender had a moment to forget on 21 minutes as her mistimed clearance allowed Woodham to score. Another unforced error gifted Wales a corner out of nothing before the break.
Caitlin Hayes 6
Allowed Welsh legend Jess Fishlock in behind too easily for the opener. Was relieved to see her error on 60 minutes go unpunished before the Celtic centre-half was denied a late winner.
Katie McCabe 7
Good shift at left-wing back from the skipper. The Arsenal star got Ireland going in the final third with some deft set-piece deliveries. Performed her defensive duties with aplomb too.
Ruesha Littlejohn 8
Levelled with a fantastic long-range strike on 35 minutes – her first since 2016 – although it went down as an own goal by the Welsh ‘keeper. A strong, battling display. Replaced by Jessie Stapleton.
Lily Agg 5
Limited impact from the Birmingham City midfielder. Made some passing errors and gave away a free before Portland Thorns’ Marissa Sheva replaced her at the break.
Denise O’Sullivan 7
Every Irish foray forward typically came through the centurion. Another impressive display from the Cork native. Showed her class in possession, superb passing quality and went close to a goal herself.
Julie-Ann Russell 8
The Galway United star’s seamless return to the international scene continues. Excellent work rate and never stopped running. Went close to another goal before making way for Leanne Kiernan.
Kyra Carusa 6
Made a bright start with two good balls to tee up her strike partner Russell. Worked hard but received little second-half service. Came off for 2022 play-off hero Amber Barrett.
Eileen Gleeson 7
Gleeson made four changes from last month’s win over Georgia. Saw her side concede a sloppy goal but recovered well to equalise as the tie remains finely balanced. History awaits next Tuesday.
Substitutions 6
Sheva (46 minutes) was introduced for her 10th cap to add some attacking intent. Stapleton and Kiernan (79) made late cameos, as did Barrett (89), to help see out the draw.