Republic of Ireland vs France: UEFA Women’s Championship Qualification – BBC Sport

Already qualified but still with the incentive of finishing ahead of England, France made 11 changes for the contest and subsequently looked lacking in rhythm.

The hosts started the game pressing high and it almost paid off immediately when Russell looked to punish a heavy touch from French goalkeeper Constance Picaud.

Shortly after O’Sullivan, who consistently looked to provide a spark through the middle, almost threaded a ball into the path of Russell but the forward just failed to bring the pass under control.

After that bright start from the Republic of Ireland, France would settle into things and see more of the ball but there was still precious little for Courtney Brosnan to do in goal.

Indeed, Herve Renard’s side were largely limited to shots from distance and lacked accuracy in their finishing.

Leanne Kiernan had the best chance of the first half but saw her effort saved by Picaud, while the same player would have expected to find a team-mate with a pull back when afforded time in the French box.

The biggest talking point of the first half, however, came when a penalty appeal from the Republic of Ireland was waved away despite Caitlin Hayes’ header appearing to strike the arm of Maelle Lakrar.