Zara Foley included in Senior International squad for crucial FIFA 2019 World Cup qualifiers against Norway

Taking it all in her stride, 16 year old Foley has a wealth of club and international experience behind her as she sets off to take part in her first Senior International competitive squad.

Having joined the Lakewood Athletic academy as a tot, Zara is a familiar face in the Navy and Red playing a pivotal role in the U18 team that reached the National Cup Semi Final during the year. Lightening quick, comfortable on the ball and hard working are all traits she brings with her in spades. Everyone in the Club wishes her well.

Zara has represented the club Internationally at U16, U17 and in Senior International friendly squads having always dreamed of putting on the green jersey for her country “I suppose when you start any sport, you might sometimes wonder what it would be like to play for your country but in reality you think that it is only a dream. To be asked to join the Irish squad and the finally to put on the Green jersey and play for your country, I don’t really know how to put it in words except maybe that it’s always a really special feeling. It is also one where I feel an added responsibility, to do well for our country.”

Ireland face Norway on Friday, June 8 with kick-off at 5.30pm at Tallaght Stadium, Dublin before they travel to Stavanger, Norway for the away fixture on Tuesday, June 12, with kick-off at 5pm (6pm local time). See full details of the squad and insight from Senior Manager Colin Bell

8 teams in total will qualify for the FIFA world cup from Europe. The importance of the upcoming Norway games cannot be understated as the table shows the top automatic qualifying spot is still within reach.

Every point counts in aiming to be one of the second-placed teams from the 7 qualifying groups. The top four best second-placed teams will enter a playoff round, featuring two-legged semi-finals and final to determine the eighth qualifier.

08-06