UEFA opens investigation over pro-IRA chant following Ireland Women’s World Cup play-off

By PA Sport reporters
Published 13th Oct 2022, 13:05 BST
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UEFA has opened an investigation after Republic of Ireland players appeared to sing a pro-IRA chant following their Women’s World Cup play-off victory over Scotland.

Video footage circulated on social media after Tuesday night’s 1-0 victory at Hampden Park of the players singing ‘Ooh aah up the ‘ra’ in the dressing room.

Republic boss Vera Pauw and the Football Association of Ireland issued apologies over the incident saying they were sorry “for any offence caused”, but European football’s governing body has confirmed it will take a closer look at it.

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“In accordance with Article 31(4) of the UEFA disciplinary regulations, a UEFA ethics and disciplinary inspector will investigate potential inappropriate behaviour by players of the Republic of Ireland Women’s team in the aftermath of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers play-off second leg match played against Scotland on October 11, 2022,” a UEFA statement read.

Ireland head coach Vera Pauw celebrates at full time during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup play-off round 2 match between Scotland and Republic of Ireland at Hampden Park on October 11, 2022 in Glasgow, Scotland. Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty ImagesIreland head coach Vera Pauw celebrates at full time during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup play-off round 2 match between Scotland and Republic of Ireland at Hampden Park on October 11, 2022 in Glasgow, Scotland. Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images
Ireland head coach Vera Pauw celebrates at full time during the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup play-off round 2 match between Scotland and Republic of Ireland at Hampden Park on October 11, 2022 in Glasgow, Scotland. Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images

“Information on this matter will be made available in due course.”

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Pauw said on Wednesday: “We apologise from the bottom of our hearts to anyone who has been offended by the content of the post-match celebrations after we had just qualified for the World Cup.

“We will review this with the players and remind them of their responsibilities in this regard. I have spoken with players this morning and we are sorry collectively for any hurt caused, there can be no excuse for that.”

Amber Barrett’s 72nd-minute goal proved enough to seal the Republic of Ireland’s qualification for next year’s tournament in Australia and New Zealand.