McCabe magic puts Ireland on bring of top-tier World Cup path

In effect, if Belgium overturn the margin tomorrow to prevail, Ireland’s path will be more arduous. They would have to do what they failed this year – top of their League B group – to attain the same seeding status as if they finished bottom of League A.

WORLD CUP PATH: Uefa have linked their qualification phase for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil to their Nations League series. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

What’s the significance of Ireland beating Belgium in the Women’s Nations League playoff?

Katie McCabe’s masterclass on Friday gives Ireland a 4-2 advantage heading into Tuesday’s second leg in Leuven.