Sparta Prague forward Kess Elmore has earned a surprise first call-up to the Northern Ireland squad for their 2027 Women's World Cup play-off against Portugal. The 27-year-old former England youth international is one of five new faces in Michael McArdle's selection.
Galway United full-back Lucy-Jayne Grant also receives her first inclusion. The squad is further bolstered by Irish Premiership trio Naomi McLaughlin, Jane McMaster, and Charlotte Havern, all making their maiden appearances.
Havern has enjoyed a strong campaign with champions Cliftonville, while McMaster has shone for Linfield. McLaughlin has impressed for Glentoran following a mid-season return to the league from Aberdeen.
The squad sees several players sidelined due to injury, including Kelsie Burrows, Laura Rafferty, Nadene Caldwell, Megan Bell, Joely Andrews, Danielle Maxwell, and Caragh Hamilton. Northern Ireland will host Portugal at Inver Park on Friday, 9 October, before travelling for the return leg in Portimao four days later.
The two nations last met in Euro 2025 qualifying, with Portugal securing a 4-0 victory in Liera and a narrow 2-1 win at Mourneview Park. If McArdle's side can overcome Portugal, who are ranked 28 places higher, they would then face Iceland or Croatia in the next play-off round.