Smyth, Ireland blank Slovenia in Women's World Cup qualifier

Shannon Smyth (Mequon/Milwaukee DSHA) played the final 23 minutes as the Republic of Ireland topped visiting Slovenia 2-0 in a UEFA Women's World Cup qualifier Wednesday night in Dublin.

The Irish (4-2-2) remain third out of six teams in Group A, behind Germany (8-0-0) and Russia (5-1-1). The group champion earns a berth in next year's FIFA Women's World Cup in Canada, while the runner-up will be in contention for one of four playoff spots to determine the final Women's World Cup qualifier.

Smyth earned her 32nd career cap for Ireland, which closes out qualifying Sept. 13 at Slovakia and Sept. 17 at Germany. The Irish are two points behind Russia, which plays host to Slovakia on Thursday, then plays at Germany on Sept. 13 and Croatia on Sept. 17.

On Twitter: @ShannonSmyth