Nigeria’s FIFA Women’s World Cup group opponents, Republic of Ireland step up their build up to the tournament with a friendly against Shepolopolo of Zambia.

The Republic of Ireland recorded a 3-2 win over the Africans at Tallaght Stadium on Thursday evening.

Zambia took the lead in the 16th-minute, when Barbra Banda’s ball across the goal mouth deflected off Izzy Atkinson onto the post and in off keeper Courtney Brosnan.

The lead lasted just four minutes after the interval, when Ireland levelled from the penalty spot.

Zambia defender handled Abbie Larkin’s shot and substitute Amber Barrett converted the resulting penalty.

Claire O’Riordan got her first senior international goal heading home from a free kick to put the Europeans 2-1 up.

Eight minutes later Barrett scored her second by catching Hazel Nali of her line to make it 3-1.

Zambia later pulled one back 11 minutes from time through Rachael Kundananji, but, Ireland held on to their narrow 3-2 lead.

On July 31, The Republic of Ireland and Nigeria will clash in their third group game at the Lang Park, Brisbane.

The Girls in Green are in Group B with Nigeria, New Zealand, Canada and hosts nation.