FIFA Reject Republic Of Ireland's 33rd World Cup Team Proposal

World governing body rule out request to alter format of World Cup.

01-Dec-2009 7:35:01 PM

More On :  Ireland Republic
Thierry Henry (France)

FIFA have rejected the Republic of Ireland's Football Association's (ROI) plea for inclusion as the 33rd side to progress to the World Cup finals in South Africa next summer.

The ROI were aggrieved at both the decision to allow William Gallas' extra-time goal in the second-leg of France's play-off with Ireland stand, as it was assisted twice via aid of Thierry Henry's hand.

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FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke claimed that approval of such a claim would be "impossible", as it would mean a drastic overhaul of the current structure that sees 32 teams compete in eight groups of four.

Valcke, according to Sky Sports, added that it would also open the gates to further requests from nations who had reason to complain.

He said that "[I] would not say it is a nonsense, but it is impossible".

Valcke will be in attendance when the draw for the group stage is announced on Friday.

Alan Dawson, Goal.com UK

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