Pauw frustrated by 'strange' play-off scheduling

Vera Pauw admits that the Republic of Ireland could be left in play-off purgatory on Tuesday week, with victory against Scotland or Austria offering no guarantee that they will qualify for the World Cup.

A complex, convoluted seeding system means Ireland will need to win and then hope either Switzerland or Iceland lose their play-offs on the same evening to seal an automatic place at next summer's tournament in Australia in New Zealand.

If Ireland, the Swiss and Iceland all win, the Girls in Green - the lowest ranked side of the trio - will likely have to head to the inter-confederation play-offs in New Zealand, where 10 teams will compete for three available qualifying spots.

The standings are so close that goal difference could be a factor.

It's also possible Ireland will kick off their play-off match earlier than Iceland and Switzerland, with UEFA allowing the individual host federations to determine the kick-off times.

RTÉ will televise the play-off, with their Tuesday night Champions League obligations adding another layer to the fixture puzzle.

The national broadcaster is in ongoing conversation with the FAI and TV companies in Scotland and Austria with regards to kick-off times. The current projected kick-off is 6pm Irish time if Austria are the opponents. If Scotland win, the kick-off time remains to be confirmed but is likely to be later.

On the pitchside hoardings during Ireland's Nations League defeat in Hampden Park last Saturday, the Scottish FA were advertising the play-off with Ireland as a potential double-header with the Austria clash.

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