FIFA rejects Ireland-France replay

LONDON – Ireland’s hopes for a rematch of its World Cup qualifier against France ended Friday after FIFA and the French Football Federation both rejected requests for the game to be replayed.

Turning down an appeal by the Football Association of Ireland as well as pressure from lawmakers and football figures in both countries, FIFA said it could not interfere and the referee’s decision to allow the deciding goal stands, despite a preceding hand ball by France captain Thierry Henry.  (AP)