Nadene Caldwell stated that Northern Ireland Women want to establish momentum by securing points early in their World Cup qualifying group. The midfielder noted the importance of a positive start to avoid pressure in later fixtures, according to the Irish Football Association. The squad is currently preparing for its opening matches in a bid to reach the 2027 tournament.
Northern Ireland previously competed in the 2022 European Championship but missed out on the 2023 World Cup. Caldwell believes the current group of players has progressed since those tournaments. The team is focusing on consistency in its defensive organisation and clinical finishing during the current international window, per reports from the Belfast Telegraph.
Manager Tanya Oxtoby has integrated several younger players into the senior setup recently. Caldwell, a senior figure in the squad, suggested that these additions have increased competition for starting places. The team intends to use upcoming friendlies to refine its tactical approach before the competitive cycle begins in earnest later this year.
