Croatia 1-1 Northern Ireland: ‘It took 13 years’ – Laura Rafferty remembers her 50th cap

Rafferty also admitted it was difficult for her to imagine reaching such a milestone before Tanya Oxtoby’s appointment, given her history of being in and out of Northern Ireland squads in the past.

“Football can work in strange and wonderful ways. I am given opportunities and I take advantage of them, I give everything for my country,” she added.

The 28-year-old praised newly appointed Northern Ireland captain Simone Magill for handing him the captain’s armband as the Birmingham City striker wanted to mark Rafferty’s 50th cap by allowing her to lead the side.

“It must have been tough for her because she had just been announced as captain, but she spoke to me and said she wanted me to wear it and I’m very grateful.

“She made my day by saying that and the band made it really special, it was a night I won’t forget.”

Rafferty admitted Northern Ireland had to “dig deep” to secure a draw thanks to a late own goal.

“The goal was unfortunate but it was a goal and I’m glad Casey Howe came off the bench to make it happen.”

“Now it’s time for us to go home and we want to put on a performance and advance to the next round.”

She believes the pitch was a contributing factor to the erratic nature of the game.

“In the first half it wasn’t too bad, but in the second half it was completely mixed up, we did the best we could, it wasn’t the prettiest but we got the result.”