Denise O’Sullivan Anticipates Crucial ‘Cup Final’ Against Wales for Euros Qualification

Republic of Ireland midfielder Denise O’Sullivan has expressed her anticipation for the Euro 2025 play-off against Wales, describing it as a “cup final.” O’Sullivan stated that reaching the Euros represents the “pinnacle” for the Republic of Ireland squad, building on their qualification for last year’s World Cup. The team, managed by Eileen Gleeson, advanced to the play-off final following a dominant 9-0 aggregate victory against Georgia in the first round on Tuesday. Their next challenge will be a two-legged play-off against Wales, scheduled for late November and early December, competing for one of the seven remaining qualification places for the Euros in Switzerland next July. “It’s going to be a cup final for us, so we have to come in all guns blazing,” O’Sullivan remarked. “It’s a massive game. It’s every one of our dreams to get to the Euros, that’s the pinnacle for us. We have been to a World Cup and want to get to another major tournament and it’s going to be a huge game.” The Republic of Ireland aims to achieve a historic milestone by qualifying for their inaugural European Championship, having made their first appearance at the World Cup finals last year. While Gleeson’s squad secured comfortable wins in both legs against Georgia, they anticipate a significantly tougher challenge from Wales, who advanced by overcoming Slovakia 3-2 on aggregate after extra-time in Cardiff. “Wales are a great team; we have played them many times and know what they’re like,” added O’Sullivan, a player for North Carolina Courage. “We know their strengths but look on the night, anything can happen so we’re going to come in focused, ready to go and give everything for the shirt.” The Republic of Ireland defeated Georgia on Tuesday before a record attendance of 8,745 spectators at Tallaght. O’Sullivan anticipates a similar large crowd when Wales visits the Aviva Stadium for the final round of the play-offs. “The fans come out all year for us, they’re massive,” stated the 30-year-old midfielder. “We’re hoping they’re going to come out again for that play-off game, they are always loud. They have supported us through the tough times and the good times.”