Portugal takes 4-0 lead over Northern Ireland in World Cup play-off

Portugal secured a commanding 4-0 victory against Northern Ireland in the first leg of their FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 European qualifying play-off. The match, held at Inver Park in Larne, saw Portugal take an early lead through a Telma Encarnação penalty in the fifth minute following a VAR review.

Portugal extended their lead in the 22nd minute with a goal from Jessica Silva, followed by a third goal from Encarnação and an own goal by Northern Ireland’s Rebecca Holloway. Despite the heavy scoreline, Northern Ireland manager Michael McArdle noted that his side performed better in the second half.

The advantage sets the stage for the second leg at the Estádio Municipal de Portimão. Portuguese defender Alice Marques emphasized that the team must maintain their intensity to secure qualification, noting that the tie is far from over. The winner of this play-off will advance to the second round to face the winner of the Iceland vs. Croatia matchup.