Tommy Martin: Time to reflect as well as salute amid the World Cup party vibes

On many levels, tonight’s occasion, which speaks to the sunny future women’s football is set to enjoy, is also a reminder of the dark clouds that never seem too far away.

FINAL FRIENDLY: Manager Vera Pauw speaks to her players during a Republic of Ireland women training session at Tallaght Stadium in Dublin. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Given that the French women’s team come into tonight’s friendly against the Republic of Ireland having recently sacked their manager following a crisis that threatened to deny them the services of one of the world’s greatest players, it’s quite something that all eyes are on the opposition bench in Tallaght this evening.

The fleshing out of allegations of controlling and aggressive behaviour by Ireland manager Vera Pauw towards staff and players at Houston Dash in 2018 has punctured a few of the World Cup party balloons currently surrounding this Australia-bound squad.