O'Sullivan scare for Ireland as Colombia game abandoned

The Republic of Ireland's behind-closed-doors game against Colombia on Friday was abandoned with just 20 minutes on the clock after a bad challenge on Denise O'Sullivan led to the Girls in Green walking off the pitch.

Ireland intended to use the match at Meakin Park in Brisbane as a final tune-up for next Thursday's Women's World Cup opener against Australia.

However, after a feisty and physical start from Colombia, an overly robust tackle on O'Sullivan proved the final straw for the Ireland bench who consulted with match officials and asked for an abandonment.

The Cork midfielder has gone to hospital for a scan on her shin, with boss Vera Pauw facing a nervous wait on the results.

In a statement, the FAI said: "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 20 July."