Deprived of veterans like captain Simone Magill, Laura Rafferty and Nadene Caldwell, McArdle introduced defender Jane McMaster and gave first caps to Kess Elmore and Charlotte Havern from the bench.
McMaster steadied the side after conceding the early penalty to Encarnacao, while Elmore sparked the second half, and at the 16th minute Cliftonville’s Havern entered with ten minutes left.
‘Exposure is crucial for our youngsters,’ McArdle emphasized.
‘It’s a risky move, but a brave one that will strengthen us long‑term,’ he asserted.
‘It offers a lasting chance to qualify, giving our youth vital experience while also benefiting senior squad members,’ McArdle said. For my money, this gamble could pay off.
After a strong second‑half display, Pinto’s goal deflated their momentum; McArdle warned his players will feel the sting for the next 24 hours but must regroup for the return leg.
Northern Ireland also lose Chambers, who was dismissed late for pulling Carolina Correia’s hair.
The trip to Portugal will give us a brief breather afterward.
Once there, we’ll gear up for Tuesday’s match.
We aim to qualify, but the road ahead is long; will Tuesday night finally spark the turnaround we need?