Heartbreak as Ireland suffer defeat in opening World Cup game

There was heartbreak for Irish fans as the national squad suffered a 1-0 defeat in its opening game of the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup.

Ireland lost to hosts Australia on matchday one of the tournament after a decisive penalty broke the deadlock in the second half.

The early group stage defeat is a setback for the squad’s campaign but the national team was cheered on by supporters from both sides of the globe.

A large crowd of Irish nationals living in Sydney attended the game at Australia Stadium and that enthusiasm was met by groups around the world tuning in to follow the game on television, radio and online.

Many communities in Ireland also organised live viewing events, including the family of 18-year-old forward for the women’s team Abbie Larkin from Ringsend, Dublin.

Hundreds of Ireland fans turned out in the Irishtown area of Dublin for a special showing of the national side’s opening game, the first time the team has qualified for the tournament.

A sea of green descended on nearby Irishtown Stadium as supporters of all ages gathered to watch the match on two large outdoor screens.

Larkin’s uncle Michael Larkin said planning for the event had kicked off immediately after she was selected for the squad.

Local streets were lined with Irish tricolour flags and bunting, as well as handmade signs and printed flags in support of Larkin and her national squad teammates.

“The idea was to do a big event for all the kids and the community,” Mr Larkin said.

“Ringsend and Irishtown is absolutely amazing, everyone got together to come on board.”

Mr Larkin said the “whole family is buzzing” about the World Cup campaign.

“Now it’s after kicking in and the whole community is buzzing. It is absolutely amazing and great for the kids in the area,” he said.

Locals got behind the Ireland squad to cheer it on during the closely fought opening game.

Supporters wore Irish jerseys and any other bit of green clothing they could find as they settled in on the pitch to view the match on the big screen.

The free event was supported by Google as well as community groups and featured local musicians, bouncy castles, games and face-painting.

Ringsend and Irishtown Community Centre public relations officer Jennifer Betts said the community would be decked out in “green, white and orange” for the World Cup campaign.

“It’s just fantastic. We’ve had Abbie in youth clubs since she was about five, so it’s great to see her all grown up now and playing for Ireland.”

The community centre was further represented by dozens of young boys and girls who have taken an interest in sport.

Ms Betts said: “It’s definitely inspired young girls to take up football or any sport.”

Labour Party leader Ivana Bacik was also in attendance and said the event showed the importance of better resources for football.

“We want to see more resourcing building up the grassroots, League of Ireland, and then international skills as well,” she said.

A shower of rain in the lead-in to half-time barely dampened spirits as fans huddled under umbrellas and scrambled for jackets.

But early in the second half, Australia’s Stephanie Catley secured the lead with a penalty – much to the disappointment of Ireland fans.

A short time later, there was then a swell of support as Larkin was called on as a substitute from the bench.

Despite energising Ireland’s attack, her efforts were not enough to secure an equaliser and the game ended 1-0 to Australia after six minutes of additional time.

But supporters in Irishtown said they were determined and hopeful for the remaining games in the group stages.

Speaking after the match, Mr Larkin said the support would continue.

Reflecting on his niece’s performance, he said: “She done well.”

Local teacher Roisin Maher said the support would not end, adding: “Great support for Abbie Larkin and I look forward to seeing her in the Canada match.

“It’s amazing that we’re even here. Go on the women!”

Danika Hopkins said: “They were absolutely brilliant, it was only for the peno. I’m gutted for them. Better than the men!”

Lisa Hopkins added that they would continue to support the team for the rest of the campaign, saying: “We’ll even take the days off work.”