Ireland’s women prepare for the World Cup play-off against Poland as Carla Ward warns the Poles will want revenge
The Irish Times reported manager Carla Ward striking only positive notes before the World Cup play-off against Poland. RTÉ and the Irish Independent reported her warning that Poland will be gunning for revenge. The Independent wrote that Ireland are chasing a second successive World Cup place and described Denise O’Sullivan as a local hero on Leeside. The Irish Examiner reported that O’Sullivan hit back at misgivings from an RTÉ panel. The date, kick-off time and format of the play-off were not in the headlines seen.
A World Cup place is the biggest prize in the women’s game, and a second successive appearance would show that the Irish team’s progress has lasted.
If you plan to watch, confirm the date, time and broadcaster with RTÉ or the FAI before you do; DailyDrop could not confirm them.
Ward strikes only positive notes ahead of the tie (The Irish Times).
Ward also warns that Poland will be gunning for revenge (RTÉ, Irish Independent).
Ward’s warning is partly pressure management. Watch the team news, and whether O’Sullivan, around whom the Independent’s preview is built, starts.
DailyDrop Ireland edition No. 10 · Morning · WED., OCT. 14, 2026