Canada fought back from a goal down to beat the Republic of Ireland 2-1 and knock the debutantes out of the Women’s World Cup.
After days of sunshine, Perth was hit by torrential rain in the lead up to the match and, knowing they needed to avoid defeat to remain in contention at their first World Cup, it was the Republic who made a stunning start.
Irish captain Katie McCabe scored the Republic’s first World Cup goal when her superb corner flew into the net after just four minutes.
It sparked wild celebrations among the Irish support, who dominated the Rectangular Stadium, which was a sea of colour and noise.
The Irish had chances to add a second against the Olympic champions, but they were undone in first-half injury time as Julia Grosso’s cross took a touch off defender Megan Connolly and nestled in the bottom corner in torrential conditions.
Adriana Leon poked Canada into the lead eight minutes into the second half and, although they pressed forward, the Republic could not find the goal they needed to keep their hopes of progressing alive.
The Republic will be playing for pride against Nigeria, who face co-hosts Australia on Thursday, in their final match in Group B.
