Super Falcons opponent’s in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, Ireland have given reason why their tune-up game against Colombia was abandoned mid-way.
Ireland’s only win from their last five games building up to the women’s Mundial came at home to Zambia at the end of June. That said, two of those came against World Cup favourites USA. The most disruptive element of their preparations came on Friday when, six days before their opener versus hosts Australia, a behind-closed-doors friendly with Colombia was called off after 20 minutes when it became “overly physical.”
Colombia were reportedly shown two yellow cards within 20 minutes and a heavy tackle on key midfielder Denise O’Sullivan saw Ireland’s coaching staff request the game by abandoned. O’Sullivan was subsequently taken to hospital to undergo a scan on her shin.
A statement from the Irish FA read: “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 20 July.”
Their Colombian counterparts said:“The Colombian Football Federation reports that the friendly match that was to take place as part of training between the Colombian Women’s National Team and Ireland, was suspended because the Irish National Team, rival in the practice of this Friday, preferred not to continue playing when 23 minutes of the first half had already elapsed.
“Although all the processes and training of our national teams are framed in the rules of the game, healthy competition and fair play, among others, we respect the decision of our rival team.”
Ireland are drawn against host Australia, Canada and Nigeria and their game against the Super Falcons is last of the group.
