Longford’s Michaela Hand set to feature for Ireland against Portugal in Lisbon

Longford’s Michaela Hand from Kenagh has earned the proud distinction of selection for the Ireland Women's Under-17s that will take on Portugal in two International Friendlies in Lisbon next week. 

Talented soccer player Michaela plays with Athlone Town at underage level in the Women’s National League and is looking forward to representing her country against Portugal with the first match on Tuesday next, September 3, kick-off 6pm  

Head Coach James Scott gets to use the two games as part of the squad's preparation for their UEFA WU17 European Championship qualifiers in November.

With Michaela in the squad, the Girls in Green beat Northern Ireland 3-1 in another friendly in Belfast recently and will aim to build some momentum from that as their 2024-25 season gets going.

There are call-ups for Arsenal duo Sophia Leonard and Lauren Bowe as well as Finley Newell and Fiona McCormick who both play in the United States.

Ireland Women's Under-17 Squad

Goalkeepers: Laura Fanning (Shamrock Rovers), Jenna Willoughby (Shelbourne)

Defenders: Kate Jones (Treaty United), Heather Loomes (Galway United), Sophia Leonard (Arsenal), Aibhlinn Cotter (Treaty United), Michaela Hand (Athlone Town), Emma Gaughran (Bohemians)

Midfielders: Ella Kelly (Shamrock Rovers), Aoife Sheridan (Shelbourne), Fiona McCormick (De Anza Forca - USA), Finley Newell (Lonestar Soccer Club - USA), Lauren Bowe (Arsenal), Sarah McCaffrey (Shelbourne), Madison McGuane (Treaty United), Ava Mullins (Galway United)

Forwards: Anna Butler (Shamrock Rovers), Leah McGrath (Wexford), Maeve Wollmer (Athlone Town), Aisling Meehan (DLR Waves)

International Friendly 

Portugal v Ireland

Tuesday September 3

Estadio Nacional Lisbon

KO 6pm 

International Friendly

Thursday September 5

KO 11am