Abbie Larkin Shines in Ireland’s Victory Over Hungary

Abbie Larkin delivered a standout performance for the Ireland women’s national football team, contributing significantly to a 2-1 victory over Hungary in Marbella. The 20-year-old forward opened the scoring just eight minutes into the match, capitalizing on a defensive mistake before later assisting Kyra Carusa for Ireland’s second goal. This match showcased Larkin’s growing impact on the team, following her pivotal role in the recent Nations League playoff against Belgium.

Larkin, who received a rare starting position, marked her 31st cap with her third international goal. Her early strike set the tone for an impressive display, described by manager Carla Ward as “superb” and “sensational.” Ward praised Larkin’s ability to seize the opportunity, stating, “I thought she was outstanding.”

The Dubliner’s confidence appeared to have surged following her recent success against Belgium, where she was instrumental in securing a vital playoff win. Reflecting on her performance, Larkin noted, “I came in with a lot of confidence and was lucky enough to get a goal and an assist.” Her determination to prove herself was evident throughout the match, particularly with her early goal, which showcased her quick thinking and finishing skills.

Larkin’s first goal stemmed from her anticipation during Hungary’s attempt to play out from the back. After intercepting the ball, she demonstrated composure as she broke clear and finished effectively. “I pounced on it,” she explained. “I drove, was composed and took my shot and got it so great!”

The assist for Carusa was equally impressive, highlighting Larkin’s versatility. She showcased her strength and agility, holding off defenders before executing a precise pass that allowed Carusa to score. “I knew Kyra would stay in the box,” Larkin described. “I just saw her from the corner of my eye and played the ball in. She had a brilliant touch and finished it off as she always does.”

Despite Hungary managing to pull one back before half-time, a goal from Denise O’Sullivan restored Ireland’s two-goal lead shortly after the break. The match concluded with a late consolation goal for Hungary, leaving the final score at 2-1 in favor of Ireland. Larkin’s performance was met with enthusiastic applause as she was substituted in the 78th minute, underscoring her influence on the game.

Looking ahead, Larkin expressed optimism for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against France and the Netherlands in March 2024. She emphasized the importance of the training camp in Spain, stating, “It was a good week for us all to come together and work on things we need to work on.” Her ambition to maintain her place in the starting lineup is clear, especially after scoring in consecutive matches.

As Larkin continues to develop her skills and confidence on the pitch, her contributions will be vital for Ireland as they aim for success in the upcoming qualifiers. With her recent performances, she has firmly established herself as a player to watch in the international football scene.