A first-half goal from Carina Wik Alfredsen gave Norway a 1-0 win over the Ireland Women's Under-19s in a Group A3 decider.

After beating both Bulgaria and Finland, Dave Connell's team had the opportunity to finish on top of their group in the first phase of qualification for the 2025 UEFA WU19 European Championships.

However, a strong Norway side edged this contest even though Ireland registered more attempts on goal and showed their class with neat passing moves and attacking intent.

It was Norway who looked the more dangerous early on and Ireland goalkeeper Katie Keane had to be on full alert. At the other end, Bohemians midfielder Aoibhe Brennan went close to pulling one back after Alfredsen's opener.

In the second period, Joy Ralph, Brennan and Kiera Sena all went close as Ireland chased the goal that their performance deserved. However, it never fell for them and they had to contend with second place in the group.

Still, Connell will be pleased by this series of games as his team look to qualify for next summer's tournament to follow on from featuring at the Finals this year.

Ireland: Katie Keane; Mary Phillips (Isabel Ryan 90), Grace Fitzpatrick Ryan, Aoife Kelly, Kiera Sena, Lia O'Leary; Aoibhe Brennan (Niamh Cotter 82), Jess Fitzgerald; Hannah Healy, Ellen Dolan; Joy Ralph (Hazel Donegan 82).