Ireland miss out on Euro 2025 after losing to Wales in dramatic playoff

Ireland lost 2-1 on the night, 3-2 on aggregate.

The tie was evenly poised after last Friday’s 1-1 draw in Cardiff, and both sides started cautiously, testing the waters in a nervy opening.

Ireland soon found their rhythm as Katie McCabe’s precise cross set up Anna Patten, who headed over.

Denise O’Sullivan then almost produced a moment of magic minutes later, curling a shot off the post with the Welsh goalkeeper beaten.

Wales had their chances too, with Jess Fishlock testing Courtney Brosnan early on. The Irish goalkeeper stayed sharp, denying a close-range effort from Rhiannon Roberts and keeping Ireland in the contest.

The breakthrough came just after the restart.

A VAR review penalised Patten for a handball in the box, and Hannah Cain made no mistake from the spot, sending Brosnan the wrong way.

Desperate to respond, Ireland pressed forward, but their commitment left gaps at the back. Wales exploited one such moment as Carrie Jones broke free, slotting home a second goal in the 68th minute.

Gleeson threw on fresh legs, and Ireland rallied.

In the 85th minute, Patten redeemed herself, heading in from close range after McCabe’s corner caused chaos in the box.

The Aviva roared as Ireland chased an equaliser, with Megan Campbell’s long throws and relentless pressure creating nervy moments for Wales.

Despite late heroics, including a brave block from Rhiannon Roberts to deny Leanne Kiernan in stoppage time, Wales held firm.

After eight agonising minutes of added time, the final whistle confirmed Ireland’s exit and sent Wales to Euro 2025.

For Ireland, it’s another chapter of bitter disappointment. For Wales, it’s a night to remember.