Republic of Ireland head to playoffs after narrow defeat to France

Carl Markham, Press Association

The Republic of Ireland’s dreams of automatic qualification for next year’s Women’s World Cup were ended after by 1-0 defeat by France in Grenoble.

Melvine Malard’s goal just before half-time proved decisive and even though the hosts played the last 18 minutes with 10 players after Thiniba Samoura was sent off for a second caution after bringing down Emily Murphy Ireland could not turn it around.

Carla Ward’s side needed to win to overtake France and become the first fourth seeds in League A to top a group, which would have secured their place in Brazil next summer, but they must settle for the playoffs.

Malard’s 40th-minute goal was worthy of winning any match with the Manchester United striker firing in off the crossbar after benefiting from a stroke of luck after the ball hit her head and fell into her path.

After the break, Ireland pushed for an equaliser with Marissa Sheva twice denied by Constance Picaud-Inconnu, with the goalkeeper also keeping out Anna Patten’s low, angled drive at the far post.

And Picaud-Inconnu’s point-blank save from Abbie Larkin was the visitors’ last chance to get back in the game.