Ireland and Slovakia in Euro qualifier venue row

The Slovakian football association has enraged its Irish counterpart by switching the venue of a European Championship qualifying match between the two nations.

Slovakian FA officials had originally informed the FAI and UEFA that October’s qualifier would be held in Bratislava, but now they have insisted the match be played 125 miles away in Zilina.

The Irish association are furious after members of the FAI specifically travelled to Bratislava to compile a dossier ahead of the match, booking accommodation and transport for the team and officials.

“The Slovakian FA, had previously confirmed formally and in writing in that the game would take place in Bratislava but new correspondence received from the SFZ has now stated that they have changed their mind and want to host the game in the city of Zilina,” read an FAI statement.

“In response, the Football Association of Ireland has replied to the SFZ and Uefa on behalf of the Irish fans who have already made travel arrangements for the European Championship qualifier, asking them to maintain their original and formally notified statement that they would play the game in Bratislava.”