Excited Pauw insists Ireland can 'steal points' after daunting World Cup draw

Girls in Green are paired with co-hosts Australia, Olympic champions Canada and Nigeria in a very tough Group B with travel also a concern

TOUGH LUCK OF THE DRAW: Ireland get drawn in Group B at the ceremony for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup at the Aotea Centre, Auckland, New Zealand. Pic: INPHO/Photosport/Alan Lee

Vera Pauw insists Ireland are capable of ‘stealing points’ in their Women’s World Cup Group B but has dismissed the prospect of topping the table.

Co-hosts Australia at a sold-out Allianz Arena in Sydney on the opening day, July 20, is first up for Ireland before they meet Olympic champions Canada six days later on the other side of the country. A date with Nigeria, the most daunting option from Pot 4, completes the series on July 31.