Republic of Ireland head to playoffs after narrow defeat to France

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.