Ireland U21 match abandoned following alleged racist remark made by a Kuwait player

ABANDONED: Sam Curtis of Republic of Ireland in action during the International friendly match between the Republic of Ireland U21's and Kuwait U22's at Parktherme Arena in Bad Radkersburg, Austria. Photo by Blaz Weindorfer/Sportsfile

The Republic of Ireland U21's fixture against Kuwait's U22 on Monday afternoon was abandoned following an alleged racist mark made by a Kuwaiti player towards an Irish substitute.

Ireland were leading 3-0 in the second half thanks to goals from Ollie O’Neill, Conor Carty, and debutant Aidomo Emakhu when the incident occurred. The match in Austria was soon cancelled.

The Football Association of Ireland posted on Twitter; "The FAI regrets to announce that today’s U21 international against Kuwait has been abandoned after a racist remark was made by a Kuwaiti player towards one of our substitutes.

"The FAI does not tolerate any racism towards any of our players or staff and will be reporting this serious matter to FIFA and UEFA."

Meanwhile, a senior friendly between New Zealand and Qatar has also been abandoned after alleged racist abuse towards a New Zealand player.

New Zealand confirmed the news on Twitter: “Michael Boxall was racially abused during the first half of the game by a Qatari player. No official action was taken so the team have agreed not to come out for the second half of the match."

New Zealand were leading the friendly 1-0 after the first half in Austria.

Qatar coach Carlos Queiroz said he had not heard the alleged remarks, but expected Fifa would investigate the incident.

”The facts are the following, " Queiroz said, "apparently two players on the pitch exchanged words. The New Zealand players decided to support their teammate just as our team decided to support our player.

"Let’s let the football authorities make a decision. I think this game will be under observation from Fifa for sure.”