Ireland v Australia: Three key battles in World Cup opener

Whoever comes out on top in these battles may well win the game for their side.

KEY BATTLE: Katie McCabe during a Republic of Ireland stadium familiarisation at Stadium Australia in Sydney, Australia. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Alanna Kennedy v Kyra Carusa:

Kennedy has been pinpointed, perhaps unfairly, as the gangly defender Ireland can expose but much will depend on whether Carusa can break the lines rather than merely act as a hold-up striker with her back to goal.