The Republic of Ireland will open their 2027 UEFA Women’s Nations League A campaign with a home double-header in March against Switzerland and Norway, rte.ie reported.
Girls in Green Face Switzerland and Spain in Spring Fixtures
Carla Ward’s side welcome Switzerland on Tuesday, March 2, followed by the visit of Norway four days later on Saturday, March 6, according to the Football Association of Ireland. The campaign then moves to a demanding away window in April. The Girls in Green take on reigning world champions Spain on Tuesday, April 20. That game represents a first meeting of the countries in more than a decade.
Following the trip to Spain, Ireland travel to face Switzerland on Saturday, April 24. The group stage culminates in June. The window opens with a marquee home clash against Spain on Friday, June 11, before Ireland round off their fixtures away to Norway on Tuesday, June 15. Match venues and kick-off times for all six fixtures remain to be announced.
World Cup Play-Off Precedes Nations League Journey
Before embarking on their Nations League schedule, Ireland face a two-legged FIFA Women’s World Cup Play-Off Final against Poland. The first leg takes place in Gdańsk on Tuesday, December 1. The decisive return leg follows at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday, December 5, with kick-off set for 5:00 PM.
The Football Association of Ireland noted that over 20,000 tickets have already been sold for the Dublin return leg. Head coach Carla Ward and her squad currently have those December fixtures circled as their immediate priority before shifting focus to the 2027 League A campaign.
Reactions to the League a Draw
Reacting to the draw earlier in the week, Ward embraced the challenge of facing top-tier opposition. Who doesn’t want to play against the world champions?
From the moment I took this job, I’ve said time and time again that we want to test ourselves against the very best, and this is our opportunity.
Spain are the best team in the world right now; their quality is exceptional and nobody really comes close to them.
Ward also pointed to the strength of their other group opponents. There are no easy games at this level in League A. Norway have real prestige as former world champions, and on paper they possess one of the strongest squads in world football. They’re also managed by a good friend of mine in Gemma Grainger, so I’m really looking forward to going up against her,
Ward said. Regarding Switzerland, she added that they are another really difficult prospect, just off the back of a solid campaign and very capable, developing side who have picked up strong results recently.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Campaign
What is the ultimate prize for winning the Nations League group?
Winning the League A group secures a place in the competition’s semi-finals and grants direct qualification for the LA 2028 Olympic Games, according to rte.ie and The Irish Times.
When did Ireland last play Spain and Norway?
The Irish Times reported that Ireland last played Spain in a 2016 Euro qualifier, while their last meetings against Norway came during 2018 World Cup qualifying, where Norway recorded 2-0 and 1-0 victories.
Where can supporters purchase tickets for the upcoming Poland playoff?
Tickets for the Aviva Stadium second leg against Poland on December 5 are on sale through Ticketmaster, with over 20,000+ tickets already sold.