Ireland WNT rise to highest-ever ranking

Vera Pauw's side are up to 26th in the world and into the top 16 European sides. 

GOING UP: Vera Pauw celebrates with her players in the team huddle. Ireland face crucial qualifiers in the coming weeks. 

Vera Pauw's Ireland have climbed to 26th in the latest Fifa World Rankings. 

The highest ranking ever achieved by the women's national team, it places the Girls in Green in the top 16 European nations.