Ireland’s Women’s World Cup warm-up clash with Colombia ABANDONED with one Irish player hospitalised

The Republic of Ireland’s warm-up game with Colombia was ended after 20 minutes after the encounter became ‘overly physical’, with one of the Irish players reportedly taken to hospital.

It is understood the match was abandoned after a challenge from a Colombia player left Ireland’s influential midfielder Denise O’Sullivan with a shin injury.

The Irish players are thought to have collectively decided to end the game following the tackle, before completing a full training session.

Media had been told beforehand that they would be allowed to watch the behind-closed doors match.

But it is understood the press were denied entry at the last minute at the request Colombia.

Denise O’Sullivan was hospitalised by a robust challenge early in the game against Colombia

O’Sullivan has lead Ireland on occasion, deputising for Arsenal stalwart Katie McCabe

An FAI statement read: ‘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.’

O’Sullivan, the captain of American club North Carolina Courage, is a key player for Vera Pauw’s side and has over 100 caps.

Referee Caitlin Williams, from Football Queensland, showed two yellow cards before the late challenge on O’Sullivan. It is not known which players were cautioned.

Mail Sport had contacted the Colombian FA for comment.