England-Republic of Ireland U15 World Cup game ends over alleged racism

The Under-15 World Cup Group C match between England and Republic of Ireland is abandoned after England allege an opposition player made a racist comment. England players gathered at the side of the pitch after the alleged incident England walked off the pitch during a match at the Under-15 World Cup after an allegation of racism by a Republic of Ireland player, which resulted in the game being abandoned. Following an altercation between players from both sides, shortly before the end of the match in Azerbaijan on Monday, an England player approached his bench and made a complaint to coaching staff. Match footage then showed England staff members relaying the complaint to the referee, alleging a racist slur had been said, and calling their players off.

Republic of Ireland were leading 4-1 at the time of the incident. World governing body Fifa told BBC Sport it is investigating and gathering reports. "Fifa is aware of an incident at the U-15 World Cup and Festival match between England and the Republic of Ireland," a spokesperson said. "The match was abandoned by the referee following England's refusal to continue. "The official reports are being gathered, and the matter will be referred to the independent disciplinary committee, who will decide in due course." The Football Association and the Football Association of Ireland have