Following the recent release of the IRL World Rankings, European Rugby League can now confirm arrangements for the Women’s 2026 Rugby League World Cup final qualifying play off game, which will see Greece host Ireland on Saturday 12 October 2024. 

The winner will proceed to the inaugural 2025 World Series to join the representatives of the Middle East & Africa, Americas and Asia-Pacific regions and for the final berth available for the full tournament the following year, which will take place in Australia and Papua New Guinea.

Ireland finished second in Group A after losing away to Wales but narrowly beating Netherlands in Dublin, while Greece’s win in Athens over Serbia secured them second place in Group B and they leapfrogged Ireland in the rankings as a result.

Greece women’s head coach, Jim Minadakis, commented: “We learned a lot from the first phase of the World Cup qualifiers and, if we want to keep this dream alive, we must prepare well and improve if we are to beat what will be a strong Ireland side. We will continue select players from our growing women’s domestic competition, of which I am immensely proud.”

“This is a new squad establishing a culture and style of play, so we are pleased with the results so far,” said Ireland women’s head coach, Matt Kennerson. “We are currently planning and finalising our training schedule to prepare the team for the challenging away match with Greece. My main priority now sustain our momentum and build towards a World Cup berth in the coming year and beyond.”

The Greek Rugby League Federation will confirm the venue and kick off time as it finalises a choice from two Athens options over the next month.