By Saheed Afolabi
The Republic of Ireland head coach, Vera Pauw says the game against Zambia provided the team the style of play of their world cup group B opponent, Nigeria.
The Girls In Green rallied to defeat the Copper Queens 3-2 in a world cup preparatory game at the Dublin’s Tallagh Stadium.
Pauw is confident Ireland now have the knowledge to play an African side at the world cup. He said Africans offer physical pressure, power and pace.
“We know what it is to play an African team now,” quoted by BSN Sports.
“You will never get this against a European team, this style of play, physical pressure, pressure that constantly goes over you in power and pace.
“That sort of play you will not get.”
A 3-2 win against Zambia remains the only win for Ireland this year.
Ireland will engage Australia, Nigeria and Canada in group B of the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
