Overview
- Ireland were beaten 2-1 by the Netherlands in Utrecht, leaving them on zero points after consecutive one‑goal defeats.
- Carla Ward criticised perceived disrespect from the hosts, pointing to a post‑match on‑pitch ceremony and what she called Dutch “dark arts” late in the game.
- The Dutch FA rejected claims they reneged on a no‑watering agreement, saying the pitch plan was approved with the UEFA delegate and Ireland’s representative.
- Netherlands coach Arjan Veurink said he did not shake Ward’s hand at full‑time due to the ceremony but noted they had spoken and shaken hands before the match.
- Denise O’Sullivan’s knee issue was assessed as not serious, and Ward expects her back for Poland in April, with games in Gdańsk on 14 April and in Dublin four days later.