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Tallaght Stadium will host Ireland’s women as they open their WXV Global Series campaign against the United States, a rare rugby fixture at a ground better known for football. The match, scheduled for 1.45pm, is the first of two home fixtures for Ireland before they travel to Galway to face Japan at Dexcom Stadium on 27 September.
Why this fixture matters
The game offers a chance to see international-level rugby close to home. Playing at Tallaght brings the team to a new crowd and gives supporters a live view of the growth in the women’s game.
Former Ireland prop Fiona Coghlan, speaking to EVOKE, highlighted the advantage of familiarity inside the squad. She pointed to continuity in selection and coaching as a factor that could shape the outcome.
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Players most likely to turn heads
Robyn O’Connor is one name Coghlan singled out. O’Connor has already forced her way into Ireland’s backline. During a breakthrough Six Nations campaign she made four starts and scored two tries. In just 223 minutes of Test rugby she recorded six line breaks, 13 tackle breaks and four dominant tackles, while accumulating more than 300 running metres from 28 carries.
Aoife Wafer is another crowd-puller. At 23, her ball-carrying power and athleticism make every touch feel dangerous. Coghlan says Wafer’s physical presence gives supporters a reason to watch even if they are new to the sport.
Jemima Adams Verling, 20, will earn her first cap after coming through Ireland U18s and U20s. The Connacht player has been handed a Test start ahead of some more experienced internationals, a sign of the selectors’ faith in her potential.
From the US side, Coghlan highlighted Hope Rogers. The loosehead prop is widely respected and has twice been included in the World Rugby Women’s 15s Dream Team, marking her out as a major challenge in the scrum.
Hard hits and hidden qualities
Coghlan named Aoife Dalton as someone who surprises many spectators. Quiet off the field, Dalton plays with uncompromising physicality in matches. Her tackling and strong carries leave a mark on opponents and often go underappreciated until seen live.
Who’d you pick for a night out?
For lighter moments, Coghlan picked Jane Clohessy. The Limerick winger has musical experience and, according to Coghlan, would keep a group entertained and tell a good story.
Leadership and resilience
Erin King captains the side at just 22. Coghlan emphasised the respect King commands within the dressing room and praised her relentless work ethic. King’s rise has been rapid and remarkable.
Coghlan noted a striking turnaround in King’s career trajectory: in April 2025 she was told she might never play sport again. By January 2026 she had been named Ireland captain. That arc, Coghlan said, speaks to King’s determination and the trust her teammates place in her.
Expectations and match details
Coghlan backed Ireland to win, citing the team’s stability and established combinations. She also mentioned the benefit of a settled coaching group and the boost a strong home crowd can provide.
Kick-off is at 1.45 pm at Tallaght Stadium, Dublin. The next home fixture for Ireland comes on 27 September at Dexcom Stadium in Galway, where they will meet Japan.
