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Ukraine vs Northern Ireland Women Contained One Of The Most Cynical Fouls In Football History

Ukraine vs Northern Ireland Women Contained One Of The Most Cynical Fouls In Football History

What was she thinking?!

Jack Kenmare

Jack Kenmare

Northern Ireland Women made history on Tuesday night when they beat Ukraine to reach Euro 2022, but it was an incredibly deliberate foul from midfielder Natiya Pantsulaya that grabbed the headlines on social media.

In the 86th minute of the game, with Northern Ireland one-nil up thanks to a goal from captain Marissa Callaghan, the home side looked to be in on goal after a through ball was played to striker Sarah McFadden.

Ukraine's Pantsulaya was having none of it, though. She completely took her eyes off the ball, barged into McFadden with a nasty elbow and was rightly given a straight red card for the ridiculous moment.

Just take at the below clip. Is this the most cynical foul in football history? It's got to be up there, for sure.


Away from the foul and it was indeed a historic night for Kenny Shiels' side, who went on to score another goal late on secure a 4-1 win on aggregate.

Goalscorer Nadene Caldwell called their achievement "an absolute dream come true" after the final whistle.

"We can't believe it," she told BBC. "There are no words. Behind the scenes, the girls have done amazing preparation and the coaching staff have been unbelievable.

"It's unbelievable for the country and there is going to be a ripple effect in the years to come. Women's football in Northern Ireland can kick on from here."

Congratulations to Northern Ireland for qualifying for their first women's tournament.

Featured Image Credit: BBC

Topics: Football, Women's Football