Ireland abandon pre-World Cup game against Linda Caicedo’s Colombia after rough play

Colombia’s pre-World Cup friendly game against the Republic of Ireland was abandoned after just twenty minutes due to the South American side’s aggressive tactics, with one tackle even landing Ireland player Denise O’Sullivan in hospital.

The game, played behind closed doors in Brisbane, was not open to neither the media nor fans as both teams were expected to play sides similar or identical to the ones that will be used when the World Cup begins in a few days, with Ireland kicking off against hosts Australia on the opening day. However, coach Vera Pauw withdrew her team from the field of play after just 20 minutes as a result of the rough tackling from the Colombian players.

Did Linda Caicedo play against Ireland?

As the game was not open to the fans or media, nothing about the teams are known. However, an educated guess would have one arrive at the conclusion that both sides put out their strongest teams, meaning that Linda Caicedo would have likely played. It is not known who on the Colombia side was responsible for the rough tactics.

Denise O’Sullivan, one of Ireland’s top players, was taken to a local hospital after a challenge was made that forced her off the pitch. She has suffered a shin injury and her participation at the World Cup is now in doubt.

The FAI, Ireland’s football association said in a statement: “The behind-closed-doors game between the Ireland Women’s National Team and Colombia on Friday evening was ended after 20 minutes of play. The game, which was held in Meakin Park, Brisbane, became overly physical and it was decided, following consultation with the match officials, to end the game. The Ireland team then underwent a full training session to continue preparations for their opening game in FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, against Australia in Sydney on July 20.”