McArdle 'really encouraged' despite Portugal loss

What the report says

Northern Ireland women’s manager Michael McArdle said the team’s play-off defeat by Portugal can still serve as a foundation for future progress, even after a 7-1 aggregate loss. BBC Sport reported that Portugal took control in the first leg at Inver Park and completed the tie with a 3-1 home win in Portimao, where Northern Ireland briefly led through Kess Elmore’s first-half goal before the hosts responded.

McArdle said he was encouraged by the side’s brave approach and the impact of several new players, noting that the camp gave opportunities to debutants as he looks to broaden the squad. Elmore, one of four players handed debuts across the double-header, became the second player to score on her Northern Ireland debut under McArdle. The manager also pointed to the absence of several established players, including captain Simone Magill, as part of the challenge his team faced.

The BBC report said McArdle views the result as part of a longer-term effort to reshape Northern Ireland’s playing identity, with more energy, mobility and versatility. Former captain Marissa Callaghan also praised the performance despite the scoreline, saying it suggested something positive could emerge from the experience.

Northern Ireland will now turn their focus to the Nations League next year, where they are set to compete in League B after their earlier promotion/relegation play-off defeat to Iceland.