'The crown of my career' - Vera Pauw's long road to Sydney showpiece 

The Ireland boss will make history in leading her side out on Thursday morning. 

TIGER QUEEN: Manager Vera Pauw, speaks to players including from left, Ciara Grant, Jamie Finn, Diane Caldwell and Lily Agg during a Republic of Ireland stadium familiarisation at Stadium Australia in Sydney. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Vera Pauw says leading Ireland out at the World Cup today is the crowning moment of our career.

Over her decorated career, which initially encompassed 89 caps as a player, Pauw had led her native Holland to the Euros and South Africa to the Olympics.