Excessive severity, a player injured in the hospital: The test match between Germany’s World Cup group opponents Colombia on Friday and the Irish national soccer team has been canceled. A representative of the Irish FA blamed “excessively physical play” by the opponents.
The Colombian federation confirmed that the game had been stopped after 23 minutes at the request of the Irish team. Colombia, a statement said, adheres to principles such as the rules of the game, healthy competition and fair play and “respects” the decision.
According to media reports, Irish star player Denise O’Sullivan had to be taken to a hospital after being hit in the shin. Whether and how badly the midfielder may have been injured should be shown by investigations by Saturday. The meeting took place in Brisbane behind closed doors. After the break-up, the Irish completed a training session, while the Colombians withdrew.
The second in the Copa America should test against China before the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand (July 20 to August 20). After the start of Group H against South Korea on July 25, there will be a duel with the DFB team five days later. Last opponent is Morocco. Ireland face co-hosts Australia, Canada and Nigeria in Group B.