Ireland can't switch off against world-class Pajor, says Katie McCabe 

Poland will seek to bounce back from last week's defeat to the Girls in Green.

Katie McCabe faces the press before the Poland game this weekend. Pic: INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Katie McCabe insists Ireland must shackle Poland’s superstar Ewa Pajor to complete their mission of consolidating third place in their World Cup qualifying group.

McCabe’s Arsenal beat Pajor’s Barcelona to lift the Champions League last season and they could meet again in Oslo on May 23 if they both emerge through upcoming semi-finals.

The world-class duo face off an international level for the second time in five days on Saturday when Poland visit Lansdowne Road (3pm), reeling from Tuesday’s 3-2 defeat in Gdansk.

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Pajor’s 71st international goal didn’t prompt a late siege but she’s capable of setting the tempo in a rematch that Ireland can effectively end Poland’s ambitions of catching Ireland for third spot. 

Finishing spots will determine the ease of playoff route to next year’s World Cup in Brazil.

“Pajor showed how much she's a world-class striker,” said Ireland captain McCabe ahead of her 105th cap, noting her previous experience of facing the country’s standout performer.

“We kept her quiet for 77 minutes but she pops up with a goal like that, which just shows her quality. By no means can we switch off at any point for 90 minutes, 95 minutes plus.

“We need to be aware of her at all times because of the threat she poses. She's quick, direct, can run and she scores goals.

“I remember the first time I played against her; it was a few years back with Ireland under Colin Bell. That was my introduction to Pajor and I’ve a lot of respect for her.

“She’s doing a lot of great things with Barcelona as well, so we need to be absolutely ready but they’ve a lot of other threats across the team”.

McCabe, despite not being offered a contract extension by the Gunners, feels in the form of her career.

“I just try and look after myself as best as possible,” said the 30-year-old. “This is a crunch time of the season whether you are with club or country.

“The demands on your body and what is being asked of you, especially in such big games against high opposition, means I just try and be as consistent as possible in terms of how I eat, sleep, train, recover.

“When I am doing all those things throughout the week it puts me in a good position to go into games.” “I am fully committed to do my job here with Ireland.

“I love coming in, seeing the girls and training with this team. We are such an amazing group and I think there is lots still to come from us.

“That’s what makes me excited; being on this journey under Carla since she came in.

“Players have really picked up form and cemented a place in the team. I’m just concentrating on these games and seeing out the rest of the season.” 

 Ireland boss Carla Ward will have Kyra Carusa back from injury to lead the line.