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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Paul O'Hehir

Aviva Stadium ruled out for Ireland's World Cup send-off

Ireland's World Cup send off will be against France at Tallaght Stadium on July 6.

Aviva Stadium was considered for a pre-finals friendly but the Dublin 4 venue is not available as work is due to be carried out on the pitch at that time.

Ireland manager Vera Pauw will see her team returning to their traditional home base in Tallaght with the FAI pushing for a sell-out crowd.

The new fourth stand at Tallaght Stadium is due to open in the summer and could be in use for the game.

France will be strong friendly opponents ahead of the World Cup finals in Australia and New Zealand in July.

They are currently fifth in the FIFA world rankings, reached the semi-finals of Euro 2022 and will also play in the World Cup.

France will face Brazil, Jamaica and a playoff winner at the finals, while Ireland play co-hosts Australia, Canada and Nigeria.

Ireland manager Vera Pauw said: “It’s fantastic that we will get to play in front of our fans in our home of Tallaght Stadium before going to Australia.

“We need to test ourselves against a high quality opponent to prepare for the World Cup.

“France are one of the top teams in the world and will provide us with the type of challenge that we require.”

Pauw continued: “A lot of hard work continues to be done around our preparations for the World Cup with some excellent games lined up.

“We’re excited to be returning to Tallaght Stadium – that is where we have made so many great memories.”

FAI chief executive Jonathan Hill said: "We did explore the possibility of hosting this game in Aviva Stadium.

“But it was not available due to scheduled pitch redevelopment work. We are now aiming to sell out Tallaght Stadium.”

The FAI is launching a season ticket for the women’s team, which will include the France friendly and inaugural Nations League campaign. Prices have yet to be set.

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