A DISAPPOINTED IRELAND were left to wonder what might have been after a 1-0 defeat against co-hosts Australia in their World Cup opener on Thursday.
The game’s decisive moment came early in the second half when Marissa Sheva tangled with Hayley Raso as the two challenged for a high ball, with Brazilian referee Edina Alves Batista pointing to the spot.
Penalty to Australia!
— RTÉ Soccer (@RTEsoccer) July 20, 2023
🇦🇺 0-0 🇮🇪#coygig #wwc2023
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Matildas skipper Steph Catley made no mistake from the spot, sending Ireland keeper Courtney Brosnan the wrong way to give Australia a 1-0 lead which they never relinquished.
Catley buries the penalty after a clumsy tackle by Sheva
— RTÉ Soccer (@RTEsoccer) July 20, 2023
🇦🇺 1-0 🇮🇪#coygig #wwc2023
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“It was really, really unfortunate,” Sheva said afterwards.
“I was frustrated because I don’t feel like I made that much contact.”
She added: “It’s frustrating to lose that way. And I’m crushed for the girls that that’s how we conceded, but the support from them has been incredible.
“You know, we rally back. Get ready for another game.”
