Northern Ireland's Journey Since Euro 2022

It has been three years since Northern Ireland made their historic debut at a major tournament, facing Norway in Euro 2022. This milestone was significant for a squad largely composed of part-time players who defied the odds to reach the finals. However, the journey since then has been marked by both progress and challenges.

Managerial Changes and Squad Evolution

One of the most notable changes has been in management. Kenny Shiels stepped down less than a year after the Euros, and the reins were handed to Andy Waterworth for a friendly against Wales in April 2023. Gail Redmond took charge for the July fixtures against Scotland and the Czech Republic. The appointment of Tanya Oxtoby, former assistant to Emma Hayes at Chelsea, in September 2023 marked a new era for the team.

On the playing front, the squad that led Northern Ireland to the Euros included several players who had been part of the senior team since its reformation in 2005. The average age of the Euro 2022 squad was 26.7, with key players like Julie Nelson (37), Sarah McFadden (36), Rachel Furness (34), Ashley Hutton (34), and captain Marissa Callaghan (38) in the latter stages of their careers. Under Oxtoby, the average age of the squad has dropped to 25.4, indicating a shift towards younger talent.

Statistical Insights and Participation Growth

The numbers reveal a significant rise in participation in women's and girls' football across Northern Ireland. The Irish FA reported an increase from 1,600 registered players in 2019 to 11,441 in 2024. This growth in participation is expected to widen the potential pool of international players in the long run.

In the Women's Premiership, the introduction of professionalism and licensing has also contributed to the development of the sport. Attendances at NIFL matches have risen by 59%, although there has not been a significant jump in crowds at international matches post-Euros.

Future Prospects

Northern Ireland's next challenge is a Nations League promotion play-off against Iceland in October. The team has yet to defeat a League A nation under Oxtoby, but there is optimism about the potential of the young squad. The Irish FA's women's and girls' strategy, focusing on grassroots football, clubs, performance pathways, people development, and profile visibility, aims to build on the progress made since Euro 2022.

Rachel Furness, the team's record goalscorer, believes in the potential of the current squad: "I definitely think the potential is there, and I'm sure the staff who are in place now think that too. In the next five years, I would like to see us challenge again, and then it becomes the norm every few years."

Northern Ireland's journey since Euro 2022 has been one of growth and transformation. With a focus on youth development and increased professionalism, the future looks promising for the team.