Republic of Ireland 3-1 France: Eileen Gleeson ‘so proud’ after ‘incredible’ win

The Republic headed into the match, which took place at Pairc Ui Chaoimh in Cork, with five qualifying defeats in a row after being drawn in a difficult Group A3 with France, England and Sweden – who are the second, third and sixth best ranked teams in the world.

After a more promising display away to England on Friday, when the returning Russell scored a late consolation in the 2-1 defeat, the Irish put in a stunning performance in Cork.

France had already qualified for the Euro 2025 finals in Switzerland next summer and manager Herve Renard made 11 changes for their visit to Pairc Ui Chaoimh, which is the home of Cork’s gaelic games teams.

Gleeson dismissed that France had disrespected her side and said “people have their own objectives”.

“We just focused on ourselves and that’s what we done in the game as well.” she added.

“We knew the squad they have, they have quality everywhere, so it’s testament to the girls out there with the effort. I’m really pleased.”

After the biggest win of her tenure as Republic manager, which started on an interim basis following Vera Pauw’s exit after the World Cup in August, the Irish will be seeded for the Euro 2025 play-off draw on Friday.

The 52-year-old said there had been “real progression” from her side and they have “learnt a lot” playing a high level of opposition.

“I don’t think we could have had a tougher group,” she added.

“There’s been a real progression from us and a really nice confidence boost going forward.

“We’ve come, we’ve lost games but we’ve got a win tonight. There has been lots of progression and there’s lot of experience from that.”