'A very balanced tie' - Ireland and Wales are now different teams, insists Gleeson

In early 2024, Gleeson’s charges fell to a 2-0 defeat to Wales at Tallaght Stadium in what was the first game of her tenure as permanent head coach of the senior side.

Ireland’s Megan Connolly and Jessica Fishlock of Wales. Pic: Ryan Byrne/Inpho

When Eileen Gleeson and Ireland faced Wales earlier this year in a friendly, there was little of note on the line other than pride - but there will be plenty to play for next week when the sides meet again.

Gleeson’s charges fell to a 2-0 defeat at Tallaght Stadium in what was the first game of her tenure as permanent head coach of the senior side, though they were without the likes of Denise O’Sullivan, Anna Patten and Aoife Mannion for that tie.