“I met with the players this morning, and we collectively apologize for any harm caused; there is no justification for this,” adds manager Vera Pauw.
The Irish Football Association and the women’s team management have issued apologies after players celebrated their World Cup qualifying by singing a song referencing the IRA.
Videos on social media showed them performing the song following their 1-0 playoff victory over Scotland at Hampden Park on Tuesday night.
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) issued a statement apologizing “for any offense caused” by the dressing room incident.
Coach Vera Pauw said: “We sincerely apologize to anyone who was upset by the content of the post-match celebrations following our qualification for the World Cup.
“In this regard, we will review this with the players and remind them of their obligations.
“I have met with players this morning, and we collectively apologize for any harm caused; there is no justification for this.”
The video depicted a bunch of gamers jumping and singing “Ooh, ah, up the Ra” — a chant connected with the Irish Republican Army (IRA).
Winger Aine O’Goran told RTE Sport in Ireland: “Last night, we sang one hundred songs, and this was the one that didn’t make it. Please accept our apologies to everyone upset.”
The squad was also caught singing “Love Song” by Taylor Swift and “Yes Sir, I Can Boogie,” a team favorite from Scotland.
Ireland qualified for their first World Cup after Amber Barrett scored the game’s lone goal in the 72nd minute off the bench.
