Ireland could take a big step towards qualifying for a first ever World Cup when they take on Sweden in Gothenburg on Tuesday.
Vera Pauw’s side have little chance of topping the group - a draw would be enough to ensure Sweden go through as group winners - but a play-off is very much in play.
Ireland currently occupy the play-off spot ahead of Finland on the basis of the head-to-head following the 2-1 win in Helsinki last year and have a game in hand.
The Girls in Green come into the game on a high having closed out last year with a record 11-0 win over Georgia at Tallaght Stadium.
And any points from the game in Sweden will go a long way towards securing a play-off spot for the finals in Australia and New Zealand next year.
Ireland opened the campaign at home to Sweden in October and only lost out thanks to an unfortunate own goal as Stina Blackstenius's shot was turned into her own net by Louise Quinn.
What date is the match?
Tuesday, April 12, 2022.
What time is kick-off?
Kick-off is 5.30pm.
Where is the match?
Gamla Ullevi, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Who is the referee?
The referee is Iuliana Demetrescu of Romania.
Where can I watch it?
The game will be broadcast live on RTÉ Two.
Can I stream it online?
The game can be streamed on the RTÉ Player here .
Who are they key players to watch?
Sweden’s team is packed with Champions League quality, starting from the back with Chelsea ’s Magdalena Eriksson and Bayern Munich’s Hannah Glas .
The difference-maker up front is Arsenal striker Stina Blackstenius , as shown when she forced the only goal of the game in Tallaght.
For Ireland, the midfield battle will be key if they’re to gain any sort of parity with a strong and technical Sweden side.
Denise O’Sullivan , who plays in the United States with North Carolina Courage, stood out in the previous meeting and will need another big game for Ireland to get a result.
Quotes Corner:
Pauw said: "This is the kind of game that we want to be involved in and one that we must experience if we are to achieve our goal of qualifying for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.
“We are going into a full stadium to play the second-highest ranked team in women's football, so we have no option but to raise our game.
"We fully respect their quality. We know that we will have to adapt to their game as they are second in the world. We hope to continue the good form that we have shown in recent games and compete as a team against this massive team."
Sweden boss Peter Gerhardsson said: “The huge crowd support from the stands against Finland in November helped us to three important points then.
“Now, of course, we hope for the same support from the stands and we will continue to do all our strength to have a nice football night together in Gothenburg.”
Betting:
Sweden 1/14; Draw 13/2; Italy 12/1.
