Ireland’s Mustaki Brings Unique Edge Against France in World Cup Qualifier

Tallaght Stadium will host a potentially decisive World Cup qualifier on Tuesday night, and the Republic of Ireland may have a secret weapon in their arsenal: Chloe Mustaki. The defender’s unique background and recent form could provide a significant advantage against France.

Mustaki’s Rising Influence

Mustaki’s performance in a central back three during October’s Nations League promotion/relegation play-off against Belgium demonstrated her value when fit and trusted. Described as tenacious and composed, she provided balance on the left side of Ireland’s defense, freeing up Katie McCabe to excel.

She is expected to feature against Les Bleus, who may be cautious about discussing tactics within earshot of the 30-year-old Nottingham Forest player.

A French Connection

Mustaki’s connection to France runs deep. Her father is French, she spent part of her childhood near Paris, and she even played for Bordeaux. Hopefully I’ll be able to hear any chit-chat during the game and cop on quickly to anything they are trying to do! Mustaki laughed, anticipating the match.

She grew up speaking both French and English, a blend she playfully refers to as Franglais. She attended a French school until the age of 14.

“I see myself as partly French, but when it comes to Tuesday night, it’ll be 100% Irish.”

Chloe Mustaki

Despite her parents separating when she was three, her father ensured she maintained her French heritage, insisting on speaking only French with her. She also cherishes her relationships with her French grandparents.

Resilience and Determination

Mustaki’s journey to this point has been marked by resilience. She has overcome significant health challenges, including a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s lymphoma at age 19, shortly after captaining the Republic of Ireland under-19s to a semi-final appearance at the 2014 European Championships. She also battled back from an ACL injury and a more recent hip injury that threatened her international career.

A call-up from Carla Ward for June friendlies against the USA proved pivotal, with Mustaki excelling in both matches. This form led to her starting role in both legs of the Nations League victory over Belgium.

“It’s kind of felt like a long time coming for me,”

Chloe Mustaki

She acknowledges the need for continued improvement, stating, We need to be even better against these two nations coming up.

Beyond the Pitch

Currently playing for Nottingham Forest in WSL2, Mustaki also pursued a career as an investment banking consultant before returning to professional football. She recently completed a course to become a qualified health and life coach, drawing on her personal experiences.

Mustaki also offered support to teammate Lily Agg, who recently returned to action after overcoming an ACL injury and a diagnosis of melanoma in situ.

Lily has been through the ringer the last 12 months, bless her, so credit to her to get herself back in position she has now with her club with everything that has been going on. Mustaki said.

Match Details

Watch Republic of Ireland v France on Tuesday from 7pm on RTÉ2 and RTÉ Player. Follow a live blog on the RTÉ News App and on rte.ie/sport. Listen to live commentary on an extended Inside Sport on RTÉ Radio 1.