McCabe Celebrates Milestone with Late Larkin Winner
Katie McCabe says she had “goosebumps” after Abbie Larkin’s 90th-minute winner sent the Republic of Ireland back to League A of the UEFA Women’s Nations League.
In a dramatic second leg in Leuven, Carla Ward’s side saw their two-goal advantage erased after Tessa Wullaert struck twice for Belgium. Just as extra time loomed, 20-year-old forward Larkin scored the decisive goal to secure a 5-4 aggregate victory and complete an unforgettable night for Irish football.
Speaking to RTÉ Sport, McCabe said:
“Scoring winners like that is unbelievable. I’ve got goosebumps even talking about it. They are big, big moments.”
The win marked an immediate return to League A for Ireland ahead of the 2027 World Cup qualifying campaign, ensuring a guaranteed play-off place and reaffirming the team’s growing presence among Europe’s elite.
A Dream Moment for Abbie Larkin
For Abbie Larkin, it was a career-defining moment. The Crystal Palace forward, who has often been used as a substitute since debuting in 2022, stepped up when it mattered most.
McCabe, her captain and mentor, was full of praise:
“Larko has been in and around us for a while. She’s been in great form for Palace and has really grown and matured over the past few years.
We need to keep these players fit, healthy and in form because we’re going to need everybody for World Cup qualifying.”
The young striker’s maturity and clinical finishing have impressed manager Carla Ward, who credited her entire team for showing composure and belief after Belgium’s comeback.
Katie McCabe Reaches 100 Caps in Style
The night carried even more significance for Katie McCabe, who celebrated her 100th international cap. The Arsenal star became just the eighth Irish woman to reach the milestone — fittingly against Belgium, the same nation she faced in her 50th cap, which ended in defeat.
“I’ll enjoy the celebrations in the changing room, but my full focus is back on my club,” McCabe said.
“Of course, I’ll enjoy the moment with the girls and the staff. I’m very proud to achieve something like this. It’s sacred.
I made my 50th appearance here in Belgium and we lost 1-0, so to win here for my 100th is special.”
Manager Carla Ward Praises Belief and Reaction
Head coach Carla Ward, who took charge in January, lauded her players for their response after a difficult first half. Despite conceding two goals, she refused to let frustration creep in, emphasizing composure and tactical adjustments.
“The goals were disappointing, but we didn’t mention them at half-time,” Ward explained.
“We focused on belief — on what we could improve and how we could react. The girls dug in, and they deserve an awful lot of credit.”
The win secures promotion to League A, where Ireland will once again face the top-ranked teams in Europe.
Looking Ahead to 2027 World Cup Qualifying
The Republic of Ireland’s promotion is not just a moment of celebration — it’s a springboard for the next stage of their development. Having already faced England, France, and Sweden in Euro 2025 qualifying, Ward believes tougher opposition will only accelerate her team’s progress.
“We want to play against the best and we’ve shown that we can compete,” Ward said.
“You only get better by playing against top nations. Hopefully, we’ll get three big teams in the draw because we can learn an awful lot.”
A Defining Night for Irish Women’s Football
The combination of experience and youth — McCabe’s leadership and Larkin’s youthful brilliance — symbolizes a new era for Irish women’s football. With promotion secured and World Cup qualification in sight, this victory represents both a redemption story and a statement of intent.
From heartbreak in previous campaigns to triumph in Leuven, the Republic of Ireland have proved they belong among Europe’s elite — and with stars like Katie McCabe and Abbie Larkin leading the way, the future looks bright.
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