# Michael McArdle backs Northern Ireland to reach World Cup

> Northern Ireland's manager Michael McArdle says his team is playoff ready for 2027 World Cup.
- Title: Michael McArdle backs Northern Ireland to reach World Cup
- Summary: Northern Ireland's manager Michael McArdle says his team is playoff ready for 2027 World Cup. Northern Ireland's women's team, under manager Michael McArdle…
- Keywords: michael mcardle, northern ireland women, world cup 2027, portugal, playoff, inver park, uefa pro, fifa women's world rankings, sports, Michael, McArdle, backs
- Source: the Guardian — https://theguardian.com/football/2026/oct/08/michael-mcardle-northern-ireland-women-moving-the-goalposts
- Published: 2026-10-08T12:12:02+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: michael mcardle, northern ireland women, world cup 2027, portugal, playoff, inver park, uefa pro, fifa women's world rankings, sports
## Michael McArdle's coaching journey
Michael McArdle worked in construction while playing semi-professional football for seven years and raising three children.
## McArdle takes coaching role
McArdle left his construction job for coaching after a 300% salary drop to lead Northern Ireland Women's team in March.
## Team's playoff readiness
Northern Ireland Women's team won back-to-back games against Malta to secure 2027 World Cup playoffs.
## Playoff match against Portugal
Northern Ireland Women's team faces Portugal in first leg of 2027 World Cup playoffs at Inver Park.
## McArdle's leadership style
McArdle uses servant leadership to build trust with players, emphasizing vulnerability and openness.
## Tactical approach for growth
McArdle employs flexible tactics across four games to help Northern Ireland compete at higher levels.
## Path to World Cup
Northern Ireland must beat Portugal, then face Croatia or Iceland in December playoffs to reach 2027 World Cup.
## Three-stage path to World Cup
If Northern Ireland reaches World Cup, they could face inter-confederation playoffs in February to compete for Brazil spot.
## Key takeaway

Northern Ireland's women's team, under manager Michael McArdle, aims to reach the 2027 World Cup in Brazil after beating Portugal in playoffs.