England Under-15s face second World Cup controversy as Bolivia goalkeeper allows late penalty to stand

England’s Under-15 World Cup campaign in Azerbaijan descended into fresh controversy on Friday when Bolivia’s goalkeeper deliberately allowed a late penalty to go in unchallenged, handing England a 3-2 victory in a fixture that ended in an angry pitch-side confrontation.

The Bolivian goalkeeper made no effort to stop the spot-kick in the dying moments, which settled the final scoreline. Bolivian players then appeared to confront both the referee and their English counterparts before both squads left the field.

The Football Association has been approached for comment on the incident. FIFA said it would await the report from the match delegate before deciding whether to take further action.

The drama compounds an already turbulent week for England’s Under-15s. Monday’s group fixture against the Republic of Ireland was abandoned after England players walked off the pitch following an alleged racist comment directed at one of their players. Footage circulating on social media appeared to show England coach Matt Thorpe beckoning his squad off the field after a confrontation between one of his players and an Irish opponent. As he signalled them towards the touchline, Thorpe could be heard saying: “It’s not happening.” The game was halted with the Republic of Ireland leading 4-1.

FIFA confirmed the abandonment in a statement: “FIFA is aware of an incident at the FIFA Under-15 World Cup and Festival match between England and the Republic of Ireland. The match was abandoned by the referee following England’s refusal to continue. The official reports are being gathered, and the matter will be referred to the independent disciplinary committee who will decide in due course.”

The FA said it was aware of the Monday incident and has offered full support to the individual player involved, while FIFA’s formal investigation into that match remains ongoing.

The tournament, held in Azerbaijan, features 189 countries. Teams are comprised of eight players and matches are played over two 20-minute halves.