Republic of Ireland will face France with 'belief'

Republic of Ireland midfielder Ruesha Littlejohn says there is “belief” they can get the win they need against France in Grenoble on Tuesday [20:00 BST] to send them through to next year’s World Cup in Brazil.

Friday’s 3-2 victory over the Netherlands in Cork leaves Carla Ward’s side second in Group A2, one point behind the French and with their destiny for direct qualification firmly in their own hands as they prepare for a winner takes all game at Stade des Alpes.

France were 2-1 winners when the sides met in the opening game of qualifying at Tallaght Stadium back in March when a Melvine Malard double saw Les Bleues fight back after Katie McCabe gave the Irish an early lead.

Littlejohn, who won her 94th cap against the Dutch on Friday, is fully aware of the task at hand, but insists “every team has their strengths and weaknesses”.

“We’re going into the game as underdogs, but we believe in our squad and will try to make it as difficult as possible,” said the 35-year-old.

“Playing France, we’re going to make it competitive. Hopefully we can score a goal and limit their chances, but they’re a world-class team with world-class players, so we know they have plenty of threats.

“We played them at Tallaght [Stadium] and know how good they can be, so we’ll look at the tactics and be raring to go.”

Littlejohn, who plays her club football with Crystal Palace, feels the strength of the Republic of Ireland squad is a major factor why they find themselves just 90 minutes away from direct qualification.

“There’s such a belief within the group,” she added.

“We’re looking to limit the goals we are conceding but it’s great when you concede and score more.

“We believe in the group we’ve got and have people who can come in and do a role which is really important in the stage of development we are in.”