England Under-15s in fresh World Cup controversy after uncontested penalty drama
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England’s Under-15 World Cup campaign in Azerbaijan witnessed further drama on Friday after they secured a 3-2 victory over Bolivia courtesy of an uncontested late penalty.
The South American team’s goalkeeper made no attempt to stop the spot-kick in the dying moments of the fixture, which established the final scoreline.
Following the goal, Bolivian players appeared to angrily confront the referee as well as their English counterparts before both squads eventually headed off the pitch.
The Football Association has been approached for comment regarding Friday’s fixture, while governing body Fifa will await the report from the match delegate before deciding whether to take any further action.
This latest controversy comes after Monday’s game against the Republic of Ireland was abandoned when England players walked off the pitch following an alleged racist comment.
Footage on social media appears to show England coach Matt Thorpe beckoning his players off the field after a confrontation between one of their players and an Irish opponent.
As he signalled his players towards the touchline, Thorpe could be heard saying: “It’s not happening.”
Words continued appeared to be exchanged between the two coaching teams, and the game at the tournament in Azerbaijan was stopped with the Republic of Ireland leading 4-1.
A Fifa spokesperson said: “Fifa is aware of an incident at the Fifa Under-15 World Cup and Festival match between England and the Republic of Ireland.
“The match was abandoned by the referee following England’s refusal to continue.
“The official reports are being gathered, and the matter will be referred to the independent disciplinary committee who will decide in due course.”
The FA was aware of the Monday incident and has offered full support to the individual player involved, with Fifa’s formal investigation into the Ireland match remaining ongoing.
The tournament features 189 countries with teams comprised of eight players and matches played over two 20-minute halves.
