Republic of Ireland ask for extra 2010 World Cup place

[ian1964 10,416]

Fifa's Sepp Blatter has revealed the Republic of Ireland have requested a spot in the 2010 World Cup finals as an extra team after their play-off defeat.

 

The Republic lost to an extra-time goal against France when Thierry Henry handled the ball during the build-up.

 

"I will bring it to the attention of the Executive Committee," said Blatter.

 

The president of football's world governing body added that goal-line technology and extra referees would be considered for the South Africa finals.

 

The executive committee will hold an emergency meeting in Cape Town on Wednesday, two days ahead of the draw for the finals, to assess the idea of extra match officials.

 

If they recommend the proposal it will go before football's rule-making international board in Zurich in March for a final decision.

 

"It's possible we will make additional officials for the World Cup but we have to see if it is feasible or realistic," added Blatter. "Something has to be done in terms of match control.

 

"We have only one man on the field of play who shall intervene in this matter. He has two assistants for the time being, perhaps more in the future. He has to make an immediate decision.

 

"He has only two eyes. So match control is now is on the agenda. How shall we avoid such situations as we have seen in this very specific match?"

 

 

606: DEBATE

Even before the handball incident Ireland were still at 1-1 in extra time so how can they go through to the World Cup on the basis that it was still a draw ?

 

Chelski-4-life

 

Regarding the Republic's case, the president added that Costa Rica, who also believe they were unfairly denied a place in the finals - this time because of an offside goal from Uruguay - would also have to be acknowledged if extra places are discussed.

 

The Republic originally asked for the play-off to be replayed but that request was immediately denied by Fifa officials.

 

The man at the centre of the storm, Henry, released a statement two days after the infamous match in which he said a replay would have been "the fairest solution."

 

[Gazza_8 233]

Bwahahahaha!

[stewarty 1,876]

Never going to happen. FIFA/ UEFA don't change the rules unless your one of the big teams.

[Norris Cole 0]

Christ. Time to let go Paddy. FIFA's undeniably corrupt, not a hell of lot anyone can do.

[Leppardized2001 0]

Exactly. Let's face it, theres no way FIFA could have a World Cup in Africa and NOT have France there.

[Zappa 0]

Only an Irishman could come up with this idea... LMFAO!

[Gazza_8 233]

Anyone heard Sepp Blatters interview on the radio?

 

He began laughing when he mentioned the president of the O'Irish FA suggested thwey could be the 33rd team in the World Cup.

 

Magic. Priceless.

[rbr 1,247]

we are all in trouble now , Bono's calling for them to be reinstated , before you know it there will be a benefit concert for them

[gisabeer 409]

we are all in trouble now , Bono's calling for them to be reinstated , before you know it there will be a benefit concert for them

 

 

right after he does one for the victims of the peedo scandal in the catholic church.... oh sorry sweep sweep.

[mainstandbear 0]

maybe they should just get a bye into the final itself...we can watch the WC and then the winner gets to play them