Gibraltar Women play their debut international match | OneFootball

After gaining UEFA membership 12 years ago, Gibraltar made their international debut against Moldova on Friday. The match was the first for each side in Nations League qualifying group stages.

With this opportunity to show what they are capable of as an international side, Gibraltar did not disappoint. The Rockettes showed no apprehension in their first game in an official competition. They matched Moldova throughout the ninety minutes, both offensively and defensively. Moldova had a slight edge in shots and corners, but possession was equal the entire match.

Unfortunately for the debutantes, the dream match did not end how they would have liked. After holding a clean sheet for the entire match, Gibraltar were sunk in injury time. A looping shot from winger Carolina Tabur went over goalkeeper Caitlin Robba in the 94th minute, giving the hosts the win. Despite the late goal, Robba was easily one of the best players on the pitch for either side. She made several key saves throughout and two spectacular stops to keep the game even until injury time.

The historic match took place at Moldova’s Nisporeni Central Stadium, and the cold weather was certainly a change for the Mediterranean players. The side has been training in cold weather for the past week, but a kick-off temperature of -2° C was certainly a shock to the system.

Debutantes, not rookies

The Gibraltar women’s national football team have been playing across Europe for the past two years to gain international experience. They had friendlies with England, as well as matches against several WSL and Championship sides. They have had friendlies against Lichtenstein and Andorra, and also faced club sides in the Netherlands and Germany.

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The majority of Gibraltar’s players ply their trade in Spain, with several playing in the UK and many more playing in Gibraltar proper. The home league, Gibraltar Women’s Football League, is still in its growing phase and currently supports five sides. The size and scope, along with the proximity, make playing in Spain very attractive.

Gibraltar’s historic UEFA Nations League participation comes home on Tuesday, 25 February, as they will host an international match for the first time. The Faroe Islands will come to Europa Point Stadium at 13:00 (CET). Both sides will eagerly be seeking their first goal and first points in the group stage. Expect the roof to come off the stadium when the home side nets their first-ever international goal. It is a privilege to see Gibraltar enter into international women’s football, and we are all excited to be part of the growth that this debut signifies.

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