Republic of Ireland

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• Founded:0
• Manager:Giovanni Trapattoni

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Irish requested extra place

30 Nov 2009 - 11:53:38

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The Republic of Ireland asked to be included in next summer's World Cup finals as an extra team, according to FIFA president Sepp Blatter.

Giovanni Trapattoni's team lost out on a place in South Africa when they were beaten by France in a play-off which was decided by a goal scored by William Gallas after Thierry Henry had handled the ball in the build-up.

Speaking at the Soccerex conference in Johannesburg, Blatter said: "Naturally they were unhappy with what happened and asked very humbly whether they could be team number 33.

"I will bring it to the attention of the executive committee but, if we do that, we will also have to bring in Costa Rica."

Los Ticos are unhappy that they were beaten by an offside goal scored by Uruguay in their play-off.

"On one match it is decided if you are in or out and this is not the spirit behind this World Cup," added Blatter. "We must have a look at this. There is so much at stake.

"It's possible we will make additional officials for the World Cup but we have to see if it is feasible or realistic. Something has to be done in terms of match control.

"How can it happen that all over the world, through TV cameras, we have seen through a cheating handball that a pass was given for a goal?

"Everyone is asking what is and what isn't fair play. The highest crime in football is touching the ball with the hands."