England U15 players walk off during Ireland match following racism allegation

The Ireland and England teams were playing at Fifa's new U15 World Cup and Festival in Azerbaijan

A match between Ireland and England at Fifa’s new Under-15 World Cup has been abandoned after England players walked off the field following an allegation of racism.

Footage on social media appears to show England coach Matt Thorpe beckoning his players off the field after a confrontation between an England player and an Irish opponent.

Words also appeared to be exchanged between the two coaching teams, and the game at the tournament in Azerbaijan was stopped with the 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.” 

Ireland defeated Cambodia 4-1 later on Monday. They had already beaten Montenegro and Zimbabwe at the tournament and drawn with Nicaragua. Ireland are one of 189 nations playing at the event which has an 8v8 format. Matches consist of two 20-minute halves. 

The FAI has been contacted for comment regarding the incident.