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19th Jul 2023

Emotional scenes as Irish team arrives in Australia ahead of Women’s World Cup

Kat O'Connor

COYGIG

Hundreds of Irish fans gathered in Sydney Airport today to welcome the girls in green ahead of the Women’s World Cup. Vera Pauw, Katie McCabe, Amber Barrett, Denise O’Sullivan, and co. touched down in Sydney, Australia this morning.

Hundreds of Irish fans were decked out in green and waved flags as the team made their way through the airport. The crowd erupted with cheers as the squad greeted supporters.

 

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Speaking ahead of their first march, manager Vera Pauw said they feel the support from Ireland all the way across the world.

“We might be on the other side of the world, but we feel the support of everyone in Ireland. We stand on the shoulders of the players, coaches, staff members, and officials who drove women’s and girls’ football forward over the last 50 years.

The manager added: “We carry the hopes of girls and boys wanting their heroes to perform well. We get to show that the endless hours of coaching and encouragement from Grassroots volunteers that helped to shape our players were worth it.

 

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“And we are able to give back to those in Irish football who have helped shape this incredible journey,” she continued.

Pauw added, “Our preparation is complete. Our motivation is intact. And our game plan is set. We are ready. We just hope that we can do the people of Ireland proud. This is our time.”

Ireland faces Australia in the FIFA Women’s World Cup on Thursday, July 20th. The match will air live on RTÉ 2 at 11 am Irish Time.

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