Ireland's Barrett Aims for Divine World Cup Assistance as Mass is Rescheduled

 

Irish fans' faith will be put to the test as they face Australia in their Women's World Cup opener on Thursday. However, in Amber Barrett's hometown, prayers have already been said as the local priest rescheduled mass to accommodate the kickoff time.

Barrett, the striker for Ireland, secured her country's spot in the major finals with her playoff goal against Scotland, prompting Father Stephen Gorman to adjust the mass schedule in Milford, County Donegal. This change ensures that parishioners can make it home in time to watch the match.

"They have moved mass to earlier on Thursday so they can accommodate the 11 AM kickoff, so that says it all," Barrett told reporters in Sydney. She playfully hinted that the Irish team might receive some divine help in their match against co-hosts Australia.

"My mum was saying I had a shout-out at mass (last Sunday too), so I think I have officially made it," Barrett added.

Although the 27-year-old is expected to start on the bench for Vera Pauw's side in the sold-out Stadium Australia in Sydney, she remains confident that she can make a difference if called upon.

"I have said it a million times before - I just always believe if I get a chance, I'm going to score," she said.

In Group B, Ireland will face Australia, Canada, and Nigeria, with the top two teams advancing to the knockout stage.