Belgian defeat sees Ireland's World Cup dream come to end

The Irish Women's World Cup hopes were dashed on Saturday as Belgium secured a 2-1 victory over the Irish team at the Belfius Hockey Arena. Ireland's Charlotte Beggs put her side ahead in the first half with a well-executed shot from a short corner, but Belgium quickly regained control.

In the second half, Belgium stepped up their performance, forcing the Irish to defend their goal area. However, top-class goalkeeping by Liz Murphy and strong defensive efforts from Michelle Carey, Roisin Upton, and Kate Mullan thwarted Belgium's attempts to score.

The equalizer arrived in the final quarter, courtesy of Belgian striker Charlotte Englebert, who found the bottom corner of the net with a precise finish. Even though Ireland was down to 11 players with the final minute still to play, Belgium managed to extend their lead just seconds later when Ambre Ballenghein tapped in an empty net.

With the outcome settled, Ireland will now participate in the consolation phase. They will face Scotland and the USA in Pool H to determine which final ranking match they will play in.