Goals from Catherine Cronin and Claire Shine made history for Raheny United today as they became the first Irish team to win a Champions League qualifying group.

Their 2-1 win over Hibernians of Malta broke new ground for ladies soccer in Ireland, securing a place in the knockout stages alongside some illustrious names in the final 32.

When the draw is made on August 22nd, Raheny could face a two-legged tie against the likes of Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain, Frankfurt, Olympique Lyonnais or reigning champions Vfl Wolfsburg in October (8th/9th & 15th/16th).

“The work has just begun,” said manager Casey McQuillan, “we will go home, enjoy the achievement and look forward to the draw for the knockout stages. I am extremely proud of what we have achieved for Raheny United & Ladies Soccer in Ireland”.

Raheny also beat second-placed Group Two rivals and hosts Olimpia Cluj Napoca of Romania 2-1 and third-placed FC NSA Sofia of Bulgaria 2-0.