What Nations League promotion means for Republic of Ireland women | OneFootball

Abbie Larkin’s late goal for Ireland secured Nations League promotion

Republic of Ireland gained promotion to League A of the Nations League on Tuesday, but what does that actually mean?

Despite defeat to Belgium in the Nations League, Ireland held on following the two legs for promotion.

What does Nations League promotion mean?

Ireland were previously in League B of the Nations League until their promotion game.

Following a strong campaign in the competition, Ireland earned a playoff game against Belgium.

The playoff took place over two legs and following a 4-2 win at home there was no stopping Ireland gaining promotion.

Belgium did win the second leg but only by one goal which wasn’t enough to overturn their opponents.

Promotion to League A is huge for Ireland, as it gives the nation an opportunity to automatically qualify for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil.

Only the four group winners in League A qualify automatically. The winners also enter the Nations League finals which sees one nation crowned champions of the tournament.

Groups for the 2026 Nations League will be selected based off each nation’s FIFA ranking. Ireland are currently ranked 27th in the world and they will inevitably be one of the underdogs in their group.

Should Ireland fail to automatically qualify for the World Cup through the Nations League they would have to go through the normal qualification process.

What next for Ireland?

Ireland return home from Belgium and the international break as victors.

The next international break is only a month away so there isn’t long until fans get to see Ireland back in action.

There is sure to be a special presentation for Katie McCabe during the next break.

Ireland’s captain earned her 100th international cap while away against Belgium. With two goals against the Red Devils on her 99th appearance, McCabe is sure to be welcomed back a hero.

The 2026 Nations League begins in September next year and is the next major international tournament on the calander.