Women’s Nations League: who are Northern Ireland’s opponents?

Poland are top of the group and will be favorites to win.

After winning their group in the inaugural Nations League last year, Poland struggled in Euro 2025 qualifying and finished bottom with no points in a group of Germany, Iceland and Austria.

This is not a true reflection of their abilities and they responded by beating Romania 6-2 on aggregate in the first round of the Euro 2025 play-offs.

They will now seek revenge against Austria and qualify for their first major tournament.

Their star player is Barcelona striker and captain Eva Payor, who has scored 62 goals in 92 caps.

Northern Ireland faced Poland in 2015 World Cup qualifying and the Poles were victorious on both occasions.

They were beaten 3-0 at Mournewue Park in November 2013, thanks to the efforts of Magdalena Shay and two goals from Patricia Pozerska.

This was followed by a 4-0 win the following September in Toruń, with teenager Pajor scoring twice.

Oxtoby’s last squad included only captain Simone Magill, defender Laura Rafferty and striker Lauren Wade in the games against Poland 11 years ago.