The FAI released a statement of apology on Wednesday afternoon in relation to footage circulated in the wake of the Republic of Ireland’s dramatic 1-0 win over Scotland on Tuesday that secured a place at the 2023 Womens World Cup.
“The Football Association of Ireland and the Republic of Ireland Ireland Women’s National Team Manager Vera Pauw apologise for any offence caused by a song sung by players in the Ireland dressing room after the FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Play-off win over Scotland at Hampden Park on Tuesday night”, reads the statement.
“Ireland manager Vera Pauw said: “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.”
The pro-IRA chant was circulated on social media today (Wednesday), after their play-off win over Scotland assured Ireland of a trip to Australia and New Zealand next summer and World Cup qualification for the very first time.
Pauw says the incident has cast a shadow over the win.
“We did not mean to hurt anyone. It’s not an excuse that we were celebrating, our key value is that we respect people. I truly apologise from the deepest of my heart that we’ve hurt one (sic). We should have known better.”
A second-half strike from substitute Amber Barrett was enough to secure a 1-0 win over Scotland in the second play-off round, with results elsewhere on the night guaranteeing safe passage to next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup.