Republic of Ireland to 'lock in' for World Cup dream

While Poland, who defeated Belgium on penalties after a 3-3 draw over the two legs, are a dangerous side - largely thanks for Barcelona striker Ewa Pajor, they lost both games against the Irish during qualifying in April.

"For us, we've played both teams recently and it's going to be different come November.

"We know there's a World Cup place at stake so we need to be ready. It's an exciting one."

McCabe says her summer move to Chelsea, which came after her contract at Arsenal came to an end, has been a "breath of fresh air" and can only help her at club and country.

"The time had come for me to start a new chapter. Ever since I've come in to work with Sonia [Bompastor, Chelsea manager] and the girls it has been brilliant.

"I'm enjoying my football again and I'm just taking it game-by-game, but for me the most important thing is being in the best position to qualify for the World Cup."

McCabe added that the Irish players know what it takes to reach the biggest tournament in the sport, after achieving the feat for the first time in Australia in 2023.

"We've had some highs and lows over the years. It's going to be really important and we'll stick together going into November.

"We'll be doing everything we can to get over the line and get this country to the World Cup again."