Ireland's World Cup opponents Canada go nuclear with strike

The match against the Canadians is due in Perth on July 26 but that appears a long way off given the chasm between the factions.

STRIKE: Canada's Christine Sinclair.

Women’s Olympic gold medalists Canada – whom Ireland face at the World Cup in July – have gone on strike over pay equity issues and budget cuts “compromising” their preparations for the tournament.

In a joint statement published by the Canadian Soccer Players’ Association (CSPA) on Friday, national team players said they are “outraged and deeply concerned” by Canada Soccer’s reported funding cuts, adding: “The time is now - we are taking job action.” Christine Sinclair, team captain, retweeted the statement with the caption “enough is enough”. Players from the men’s team have backed their stance in a public statement of support.