Ireland lose to France in opening Euro 2025 qualifier

France beat the Republic of Ireland in their opening match of the Women’s Euro qualifier in Metz.

Marie-Antoinette Katoko’s early goal settled the match after the striker converted Maelle Lakrar’s pass in the sixth minute.

It was an uphill task for the Republic against the third-best team in the world, with only a strong performance from goalkeeper Courtney Brosnan keeping the scoreline respectable.

Ireland were outplayed in the first half, with France continually on the offensive. Several Irish players picked up cards in their efforts to keep the French at bay, though there was a late Irish rally in the final five minutes.

While Eileen Gleeson had said the team were looking for a win, the 5-4-1 formation seemed to signal a focus on a more conservative approach.

Ireland’s next opponents - England - were held to a 1-1 draw by Sweden tonight at Wembley. They face Ireland in Aviva on Tuesday.