Pauw hails rise as Irish equal highest ever world ranking

The Republic of Ireland have jumped up to 27th in the latest FIFA Women's world rankings, equalling their highest ever position.

Ireland were ranked 27th back in November 2008 after Noel King guided them to the UEFA European Championship play-offs, where they were beaten by Iceland 4-1 on aggregate.

Vera Pauw's class of 2022 have been elevated three places since the last rankings update and five in total since the current boss took charge in 2019.

Ireland are in a training camp in Turkey preparing for the World Cup qualifier away to Georgia on 27 June.

They will play the Philippines in a friendly on Sunday (4pm kick-off), before travelling to Georgia for the qualifier.

Pauw's side sit third in Group A with games against the Georgias, Finland and Slovakia to come as they chase second spot and a place in the play-offs. If they win their next two game, they'll have done just that.

"It is fantastic to see our team's rise in the latest FIFA Women's world rankings as that is a reflection of the hard work put in by the players and staff over the last four years," reflected Pauw.

"In 2019, we started with a new approach and plan, which we are still working on, and we have achieved some brilliant results during that period but our performances have improved each time.

"I cannot give enough credit to our players, who have bought into our plans and helped to shape our approach. We wanted to raise the bar in everything that we do and even though that is an ongoing process we feel that we are on the right track, with three difficult World Cup qualifiers still to come.

"Our rise in the rankings is down to what the players do the pitch, but also what the staff do off the pitch.

"I'm so grateful to work with such dedicated staff members, who are