England Under-15 World Cup match abandoned after racism allegation against Ireland player
England's Under-15 World Cup group match against the Republic of Ireland in Baku was abandoned after England alleged a racist comment by an Ireland player and refused to continue, with Fifa investigating.
England's Under-15 World Cup Group C match against the Republic of Ireland in Baku was abandoned after England alleged that an Ireland player made a racist comment, prompting the English players to leave the pitch. The incident occurred in the final minute of Monday's game, shortly before the end, with Ireland leading 4-1.
According to match footage, an altercation between players from both sides preceded an England player approaching his bench to complain to coaching staff. England staff then relayed the allegation to the referee, and head coach Matt Thorpe was seen asking the referee to come over before calling his players off. An assistant coach was heard telling the referee that the team was reporting racism and that the players did not want to play, later saying a player was upset.
Fifa said it is aware of the incident and is gathering official reports, which will be referred to its independent disciplinary committee to decide in due course. The governing body confirmed the referee abandoned the match following England's refusal to continue. The Football Association and the Football Association of Ireland have been contacted for comment.
Heated words were exchanged between the two sets of coaching staff afterwards, with both sides saying they were trying to protect their players. This is the first edition of the Under-15 World Cup and Festival, involving 189 countries and territories, played in an eight-a-side format on smaller pitches with 20-minute halves. England were scheduled to face Zimbabwe later on Monday, with Ireland due to play Cambodia at the same time.
Image: DAZN / BBC Sport
