Northern Ireland Women’s U-19 team suffered a disappointing 2-1 defeat against Cyprus in a Euro qualifier at Seaview Stadium in Belfast.
Northern Ireland fell behind after eight minutes and that early setback knocked them out of their stride a little. The goal was scored by Watford Development’s Sophie Dionnissiou following a sweeping move, reports irishfa.com.
Cyprus doubled their lead on 24 minutes when Maria Panagiotou’s free-kick from 35 yards found the top corner. Rachael Norney got a hand to the ball but could not keep it out.
Northern Ireland showed more purpose after the interval and half-time substitute Eve Reilly had a shot blocked two minutes after entering the fray.
Dionissiou hit the woodwork on 51 minutes after racing clear of the home defence, then on 73 minutes substitute Cara Tumelty hammered a free-kick just over the top from 35 yards.
Northern Ireland eventually pulled a goal back in the 81st minute. Naomi McLaughlin picked up the ball around 30 yards out and smashed it into the net.
Northern Ireland must defeat Kosovo at Seaview on Easter Monday at noon by two clear goals to give themselves a chance of promotion to League A for 2023-24.
