Ireland’s pre-World Cup match abandoned after 20 minutes due to ‘overly physical play’

The match was called off after just 20 minutes of play.

The Republic of Ireland faced Colombia in a behind-closed-doors match on Friday ahead of the World Cup beginning next week. The friendly match in Brisbane, Australia, however, was abandoned after just 20 minutes after a heavy challenge on Ireland midfielder Denise O'Sullivan. https://twitter.com/Cumoski/status/1679822439365357568?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Etweet Ireland's coaching staff then consulted with the match officials and the game was abandoned. The Football Association of Ireland have released a statement on the incident, which reads:

"The behind-closed-doors game between the Ireland Women’s National Team and Colombia on Friday evening was ended after 20 minutes of play.
 
"The game, which was held in Meakin Park, Brisbane, became overly physical and it was decided, following consultation with the match officials, to end the game. "The Ireland team then underwent a full training session to continue preparations for their opening game in FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, against Australia in Sydney on July 20."

O'Sullivan has been taken to the hospital for a scan on her injured shin. Ireland play their first match at the World Cup next Tuesday, when they face co-hosts Australia in Sydney. Ireland have been drawn in Group B, alongside Australia, Nigeria and Canada. Colombia, meanwhile, are in Group H alongside Germany, Morrocco, and South Korea. Read next:

• “She’s quite blunt, straight to the point” – Stephanie Zambra speaks about working under Ireland manager Vera Pauw.
• Blow for Republic of Ireland as Mikey Johnston ruled out of Euro qualifiers in September.
• Katie McCabe refused permission to wear OneLove armband for World Cup.