McArdle backs Northern Ireland newcomers after Portugal play-off exit

Northern Ireland manager Michael McArdle has backed the new players introduced during the World Cup qualifying play-off against Portugal, despite a 7-1 aggregate defeat. Speaking to BBC Sport NI after the second leg, he said the squad's energy and willingness to adopt his approach had encouraged him, while acknowledging his frustration with the scoreline.

McArdle gave four players their international debuts across the two matches. He singled out Kess Elmore, who scored Northern Ireland's only goal of the tie, and said the newcomers could make further contributions. His assessment came after a window in which captain Simone Magill, Laura Rafferty, Nadene Caldwell and Caragh Hamilton were unavailable.

The manager said he wanted a team with greater mobility, energy and versatility, and urged patience as that style developed. He praised the players' willingness to take risks and play on the front foot. Northern Ireland's focus now shifts towards next year's Nations League, when they will compete in League B.

BBC Sport's match report recorded a 3-1 second-leg defeat in Portimao, but Northern Ireland led after 30 minutes through Elmore on her first start. The Sparta Prague forward capitalised on a defensive lapse to finish low into the corner. Fi Morgan then headed an Emily Cassap delivery narrowly wide as the visitors sought a second goal on the night.

Portugal equalised before the interval when Carolina Santiago converted the rebound after her initial shot hit the post. A video review left the goal standing. Substitute Jessica Silva made it 2-1 in the 74th minute from Telma Encarnacao's cross, before Carole Costa converted an 83rd-minute penalty after Ellie Mason was penalised for handball. Those goals added to Portugal's four-goal advantage from the first leg at Inver Park.

The outcome ended Northern Ireland's attempt to reach a first Women's World Cup. Portugal advanced to a two-legged meeting with Iceland, who eliminated Croatia 9-0 on aggregate, for a place in Brazil next summer. For Northern Ireland, Elmore's goal and the four debuts were tangible additions to the squad's experience despite the elimination.