A pre-World Cup friendly match between the Republic of Ireland and Colombia was cut short after just 20 minutes due to excessively aggressive play. The incident occurred during a closed-door session at Meakin Park in Brisbane, Australia on Friday. One Irish player reportedly required hospitalization for a shin injury.

The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) stated that the match officials, in consultation with the teams, decided to end the game early. Following the abrupt conclusion of the match, the Irish team conducted a full training session to prepare for their World Cup opener against Australia on July 20th. Media reports indicate that two Colombian players received yellow cards in the brief period of play.

While the FAI cited the physicality of the game as the reason for its premature end, the Colombian Football Federation offered a slightly different perspective. They claimed that the Irish team chose to stop playing after 23 minutes of the first half. They acknowledged the intensity of the match but respected Ireland's decision. Midfielder Denise O'Sullivan was reportedly taken to a hospital for a shin injury sustained during the match.

The FIFA Women's World Cup, co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, is set to commence on July 20.