In front of 32,742 fans in the Aviva Stadium, Ireland put in a fighting performance in a 2-0 loss to England.

In what was their second game in EURO 2025 Qualifying, Ireland started brightly and pushed the European champions back inside their own half to show that they were up for this one.

However, Lauren James took advantage of a ball not being cleared from inside the penalty area to fire England in front after 12 minutes.

The visitors extended their lead just six minutes later when Alex Greenwood converted a penalty and that had Ireland chasing a way back into the game.

Greenwood had another penalty on the half hour but her effort struck the post and that gave the hosts belief. They had some breakaways but the final pass didn't land where it needed to.

In the second half, the Girls in Green shifted up a gear and began to pin England back. There was always the threat that England could score but Ireland really went for it.

A couple of chances fell their way, with Caitlin Hayes and Sky Ireland Player of the Match Katie McCabe going close. But it a comeback wasn't to be.

Still, Ireland will be stronger for this performance as they turn their focus towards a double header against Sweden.

Ireland: Courtney Brosnan; Heather Payne (Leanne Kiernan 61), Caitlin Hayes, Louise Quinn, Anna Patten, Aoife Mannion; Denise O’Sullivan, Ruesha Littlejohn (Megan Connolly 46); Lucy Quinn (Megan Campbell 60), Katie McCabe; Kyra Carusa (Emily Murphy 67).

England: Hannah Hampton; Lucy Bronze, Leah Williamson, Alex Greenwood, Jess Carter; Kiera Walsh, Ella Toone (Georgia Stanway 75), Jess Park (Fran Kirby 55); Lauren James, Alessia Russo (Rachel Daly 87), Lauren Hemp (Beth Mead 55).

Referee: Lina Lehtovaara (Finland).