Katie McCabe eyes ’27 via October milestone as she looks ahead to the crucial UEFA Women’s Nations League play-off against Belgium. After a year packed with highs and challenges at both club and international level, the Republic of Ireland captain is now fully focused on helping her team take a major step toward the 2027 World Cup.
A Make-or-Break Play-Off in October
Ireland will face Belgium over two legs in October. A win would secure promotion to League A, putting them in a stronger position heading into World Cup qualifiers. A loss, however, would leave them in League B and make the road to the 2027 World Cup in Brazil much tougher. McCabe knows how important this is, especially after narrowly missing out on Euro 2025 following last year’s loss to Wales.
McCabe’s Message: Let’s Pack the Aviva
Beating Belgium won’t be easy—they’re a quality team that played in the last Euros. But McCabe is hopeful that Irish fans will come out in full force for the first leg on Friday, 24 October, at the Aviva Stadium. “We want the Aviva absolutely rocking that night,” she said. “Even if you don’t usually follow the women’s team, if you’re a football fan, come and support us.”
A Team in Transition Under Carla Ward
Ireland’s new coach, Carla Ward, has only been in the role for six months, and results have been mixed so far. But McCabe believes the team is starting to take shape. “It’s a transition period, but Carla’s figuring out her style, our structure, and the players,” she explained. The October play-off will be a key moment in defining the team’s identity and future direction.
Champions League Glory and the Power of Representation
On the club side, McCabe made history in May by becoming the first Irish player to win a Women’s Champions League medal, helping Arsenal defeat Barcelona in Lisbon. Looking back, she said, “It’s so special. It made us even hungrier as players.” But for McCabe, it’s not just about the trophy—it’s about inspiring young footballers across Ireland. “There were little girls and boys watching, and maybe now they dream of lifting that trophy themselves.”
A Role Model On and Off the Pitch
McCabe knows her success is part of something bigger. She hopes her journey motivates more girls to get into football and aim high. With grassroots participation growing, her goal is to see more Irish players in top clubs and help raise the profile of women’s football across the country. As October approaches, all eyes are on what could be the next big milestone in her already incredible journey.
