Republic of Ireland face France in World Cup qualifier

Republic of Ireland midfielder Ruesha Littlejohn says her team has belief ahead of Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier against France in Grenoble. The match kicks off at 20:00 BST at Stade des Alpes. Littlejohn has won 94 caps for the Republic of Ireland. Friday’s 3-2 win over the Netherlands in Cork left Carla Ward’s side second in Group A2, one point behind France. The result keeps Ireland’s direct qualification hopes alive. France beat Ireland 2-1 in their opening qualifier at Tallaght Stadium in March. Melvine Malard scored twice after Katie McCabe had given the Irish an early lead. Littlejohn played her club football for Crystal Palace at the time of that match. Littlejohn stressed the challenge of facing a world-class opponent. "Every team has their strengths and weaknesses," she said. "We're going into the game as underdogs, but we believe in our squad and will try to make it as difficult as possible." She added: "Playing France, we're going to make it competitive. Hopefully we can score a goal and limit their chances, but they're a world-class team with world-class players." Littlejohn highlighted the squad’s collective belief as a key factor. "There's such a belief within the group," she said. "We're looking to limit the goals we are conceding but it's great when you concede and score more." The 35-year-old also pointed to the squad’s tactical flexibility. "We have people who can come in and do a role which is really important in the stage of development we are in."