Greek Women see EURO 2021 hopes dwindle after valiant defeat in Dublin

The Greek Women’s National Team saw their EURO 2021 hopes dwindle after a valiant 1-0 defeat in Dublin.

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The Greek women’s national team suffered a 1-0 defeat to Ireland on Thursday evening in Dublin in EURO 2021 qualifying. The Group I encounter was settled with Diane Caldwell’s goal on the stroke of halftime.

The 4,511 strong crowd at the Dallaght Stadium in the Irish capital were in full voice throughout and their side undoubtedly controlled proceedings. However, Antonis Prionas’ Greek team battled extremely well and kept themselves in the match until the very end.

Before Caldwell’s breakthrough, the visitors had frustrated the home side and nearly went ahead when Ireland goalkeeper Marie Hourihan spilled a corner only for defender Aine O’Gorman to clear the ball away. Before that, Denise O’Sullivan’s chance had brought about a fantastic save from Greek keeper Anthi Papakonstantinou.

But just as Greece were set to go into the half with a 0-0 scoreline Caldwell struck as she tapped home following a Louise Quinn header from a free-kick. 

Greece attempted to open up in the second half and just after the hour had their two best chances with efforts from Despoina Chatzinikolaou and Veatriki Sarri, but both shots failed to hit the target. Ireland saw out the rest of the match ultimately unable to add a second which led to some nervy moments in injury-time.

Quality won out however and Vera Pauw’s team seemed to have that little bit extra that made the difference. The victory puts Ireland into the driver’s seat to finish second in Group I. The section is led by Germany (12 points) followed by Ireland (10 points) and then Greece in third on four points. 

The defeat makes it unlikely that Greece can make EURO 2021 as they now sit six points behind Ireland with just four matches remaining. Still, the performances by the Ethniki in this group have been very strong and offer hope for a brighter future in the women’s game. 

Greece will be in action again next month away to the Ukraine on April 14th.

by George Tsitsonis

Image Source: gazzetta.gr

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