Glentoran Defeats Linfield 2-1 to Reach Women's Irish Cup Semi-Finals

Glentoran edged past fierce rivals Linfield 2-1 at the Blanchflower Stadium to book their place in the semi-finals of the Women's Irish Cup, with Naomi McLaughlin delivering the decisive blows on a tense night in Belfast.

The visitors struck first. On 36 minutes, McLaughlin found the breakthrough, putting Kim Turner’s side in front and silencing the home support. Linfield, though, refused to fold. Cora Chambers dragged the Blues level, restoring belief and turning the tie into a scrap with everything on the line.

As the clock ticked towards extra-time, the tension climbed. Then McLaughlin stepped up again. With eight minutes left, she struck her second of the game, a late winner that pushed Glentoran into the final four and left Linfield with nothing but regret.

Cup holders Cliftonville moved through with far less drama, easing to a 3-0 win over Derry City. An early own goal set the tone, handing the Reds control before they had even settled into their rhythm. From there, they never let it slip. Teegan Lynch added a second before the break, and Louise McDaniel struck after the interval to complete a professional, commanding performance from the champions.

At Seaview, Crusaders Strikers had to fight for everything in a 2-1 victory over Sion Swifts, the side who have already wrapped up the Championship title. Ali Nelson gave the Premiership outfit the lead, and when Rebecca Bassett doubled that advantage, Crusaders looked to be cruising.

Sion Swifts had other ideas. Substitute Caoimhe Heron pulled one back to set up a nervy finish, but Crusaders dug in, absorbed the pressure and saw the game out to secure their semi-final spot.

Lisburn claimed the final place in the last four with a tight 1-0 win over Ballymena United, rounding off a night that has left a sharp, competitive edge to the semi-final lineup in the Women's Irish Cup.