McCabe’s absence would remove Ireland’s captain and one of their most experienced players for a difficult away assignment. Sheva’s suspension further reduces Carla Ward’s midfield options, leaving Ireland to redistribute responsibility rather than replace one player directly.
The report says O’Sullivan has been included in the squad but is not expected to travel. Ward hopes the midfielder can return for the second leg, when McCabe and Sheva would also be available.
That timeline makes the opening match especially important. Ireland may need to stay in contention without three senior figures before taking advantage of a stronger squad at home.
The changing selection picture has reportedly opened the door for Shanade Hopcroft’s first Ireland call-up. The Crystal Palace midfielder helped Birmingham City win promotion to the Women’s Super League last season, according to the report.
Hopcroft’s route to the squad has been unconventional. She previously helped Palace reach the top flight and was named the club’s player of the year, while her eligibility comes through her Irish grandmother.
The report says the return fixture will take place at Páirc Uí Chaoimh on 13 October, with Ireland’s senior players potentially back in contention. Progress would reportedly set up a final play-off against Belgium or Poland, with a place at next summer’s World Cup in Brazil at stake.
The immediate storyline is whether Ireland can manage the absences in Astana. Hopcroft’s debut, the midfield reshuffle and the first-leg result will shape the pressure heading into the decisive home fixture.