Carusa gives Ward a winning debut but Turkish resilience signals Nations League stroll is over

Although Carla Ward’s opening match will be remembered for victory, it was only just against a Turkish side who were inches from blotting the new reign.

SMILES BETTER: Ireland’s Kyra Carusa celebrates scoring the only goal of the game. Pic: INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Uefa Women's Nations League League B, Group 2: Rep of Ireland 1 (Carusa 45+3’) Turkey 0

If this is anything to go by, there’ll be no repeat stroll through Uefa Nations League B for Ireland.