Why winning Nations League group matters

Winning the group will provide a direct route to the finals. 

DIRECT ROUTE: Players pose for a photograph wearing pink t-shirt's to promote Breast Cancer Ireland's awareness month during a Republic of Ireland women training session at Tallaght Stadium in Dublin. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Why winning the Nations League group matters:

Eight teams, those who finish first and second in next year’s four League A groups, progress directly to the finals. Even if Ireland don’t finish third in their four-nation pool, they’d be assured a playoff route by, meeting nations from League C, either the group victors or the best runners-up. That is a semi-final for a final against a team that could emerge from League B.