The second round of the rectangular qualifying round for the 2021 New Zealand Women’s World Cup, the blue of Andrea de Giandomenico, is a fundamental challenge to continuing the World Championship competition.

After a beautiful and clear victory in the debut against Scotland, in fact, Sarah Barrett and teammates face dreaded Ireland, Surprise Exit beat Spain 8-7. A knockout of shuffling cards on a qualifying key saw Italy lose to their opponent on the most difficult card, but on the other hand, he found some rivals who could become world champions in the Iberians. In fact, the first of the tournament qualifies directly for the World Cup and the second goes to the recharge tournament.

Ireland are definitely a tougher team than Scotland, the Irish who beat the Blues 25-5 a few months ago. In the final for third place in six nations, but the formation we saw against Spain was very difficult. Ireland is going through a long transition phase, capable of excellent results, as well as sensational knockouts. And it must be remembered Blue has been presented to the last six nations with very few rallies on their feet, De Giandomenico was certainly able to prepare well for this tournament.

“Ireland have a game different from ours and we have to win breaks: we need possession and fast balls to put our game into practice. To date, the precautionary measures against our closest rivals have not smiled at us, with a win at Lanfranchi in the Women’s Six Nations in 2019 and another formula. Each challenge is unique and each match is different and basic. We must not forget the path we have taken to find where we are now, and continue to focus on the present. “ The words of the coach on the eve of the match.

If true, as DiGiandomenico says, the precautions will not smile in Italy, It is true that the blue against Scotland appeared with determination and goodwill.. The Irish knockout against Spain made Sunday’s match a real play-off. Whoever wins has a chance to go to New Zealand. Whoever suffers a serious loss will not even get a pass for repatriation.

Photo: Valerio Origo – LPS