The Republic of Ireland will compete in the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the first time next year following a historic 1-0 victory over Scotland in their do-or-die qualifying match on Tuesday night in Hampden Park.
Amber Barrett of Donegal scored the winning goal in the 72nd minute, striking low into the bottom corner.
The Donegal woman fell to her knees, pointing to the blank armband she wore to remember the victims of last weekend’s Creeslough tragedy in her home country.
Barrett dedicated the victory to the victims of the Creeslough tragedy, “those 10 beautiful souls”.
Earlier results suggested that a win in Glasgow would ensure Ireland’s qualifying.
Vera Pauw’s side was helped to automatic qualification as Iceland lost 4-1 to Portugal after extra time.
Switzerland will join Ireland in the draw after they beat Wales 2-1 after extra time in Zurich.
Manager Pauw said she couldn’t believe what her team had just achieved.
“I can’t believe it. I just can’t believe it. How is this possible?” Pauw told RTE.
“Amber’s first touch made the game. Preparation is everything. The saved penalty by Courtney was not luck. We knew where it was going. We trained for everything and we were ready for every scenario.” Pauw said.
