Football Association of Ireland have confirmed to Sportspeak that it has received correspondence from FIFA, rejecting the Association’s request for a replay of the World Cup play-off match between France and the Republic of Ireland.A previously scheduled meeting of the FAI Board of management will take place this afternoon where the FAI will discuss further options.

The Irish government are also lobbying FIFA , the French government and the Federation Football De France(FFF) to try and secure justice following the events of November 18th.

The match has now become an international concern with media outlets worldwide discussing whether vested interests are dominating sports at the expense of smaller nations such as the Republic Of Ireland. A poll taken in France has revealed that the French public believe that a replay should be granted with 87 % believing that Thierry Henry’s handball had brought shame on the nation.

1. FIFA Await Irish Replay Plea As Moran Calls For Nation To Move On & Accept French Cheating
2. Replay Would Be Fairest Solution – Henry
3. French Federation say “Non” to Irish pleas for replay
4. Robbie Keane Welcomes Thierry Henry’s Call For replay
5. Le Main de Dieu (Hand of God) causes an international debate on FIFA’s fairplay campaign