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Blatter: Ireland asked about being 33rd team at World Cup

Nov 30, 2009, 11:36 GMT

Johannesburg - The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) asked to be included at the 2010 World Cup finals as the 33rd team following their controversial play-off elimination at the hands of France, FIFA president Joseph Blatter claimed Monday. Ireland lost to an extra-time goal by William Gallas in Paris after Thierry Henry clearly handled the ball in the build-up. 'Naturally they were unhappy with what happened and asked very humbly whether they could be team number 33,' Blatter told a press conference at the Soccerex in Johannesburg. However, he stated that there was no chance of Ireland being granted a place in next year's finals but that the outcry could lead to a new method of deciding World Cup places. 'On one match it is decided if you are in or out and this is not the spirit behind this World Cup,' said Blatter. 'We must have a look at this. There is so much at stake.' FIFA's executive committee will hold an extraordinary meeting Wednesday to discuss the issue as well as the recent revelations about match manipulation in European football by betting syndicates. Blatter indicated that the use of two extra officials behind the goal, currently being trialled in the Europa League, could be introduced for the World Cup. 'It's possible we will make additional officials for the World Cup but we have to see if it is feasible or realistic,' he said. 'Something has to be done in terms of match control.'

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Blatter: Ireland asked about being 33rd team at World Cup

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