Ireland’s Women’s World Cup warm-up clash against Colombia is ABANDONED after play ‘got too physical’, just 20 minutes from kick-off, with Irish player hospitalized
- Ireland and Colombia prepare for the Women’s World Cup later this month
- Denise O’Sullivan is the captain of the North Carolina Courage and has 100 caps
- FIFA in dispute over sexism after inviting only male players to prepare World Cup officials
The Republic of Ireland warm-up match against Colombia ended after 20 minutes after the encounter became “too physical”, and one of the Irish players was reportedly taken to hospital.
The match is understood to have been abandoned after a Colombia player challenged influential Irish midfielder Denise O’Sullivan with a shin injury.
It is believed that the Irish players collectively decided to end the game after the tackle, before completing a full training session.
The media had been told in advance that they would be allowed to watch the match behind closed doors.
But it is understood that the press was denied entry at the last moment at the request of Colombia.
Denise O’Sullivan was hospitalized for a strong challenge at the start of the match against Colombia.
O’Sullivan has managed Ireland on occasion, standing in for Arsenal stalwart Katie McCabe.
A statement from the FAI read: “The closed-door match between the Irish Women’s National Team and Colombia on Friday night ended after 20 minutes of play.
“The game, which was held at Meakin Park, Brisbane, became too physical and it was decided, after consultation with the match officials, to end the game.
“The Ireland team then underwent a full training session to continue preparations for their first match at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, against Australia in Sydney on July 20.”
O’Sullivan, the captain of the American club North Carolina Courage, is a key player for Vera Pauw’s team and has more than 100 caps.
Football Queensland referee Caitlin Williams was shown two yellow cards ahead of the late challenge on O’Sullivan. It is not known which players were booked.
Mail Sport had contacted the Colombian Football Federation for comment.
