On 14 November 2009, France met the Republic of Ireland in the first leg of the play-off. The score stayed level until Nicolas Anelka found the goal in the 72nd minute when his shot deflected off Sean St Ledger and ended up in the back of the net. The first leg of the two games finished 1–0 for France.
France 1–1 Republic of Ireland - Robbie Keane scored for Ireland and William Gallas scored for France on a controversial goal. Thierry Henry handled the ball twice before crossing to Gallas for the game-winning goal in extra time. Henry admitted handling the ball. "I have never denied that the ball was controlled with my hand," Henry said. ... "Naturally, I feel embarrassed at the way that we won and feel extremely sorry for the Irish who definitely deserve to be in South Africa," Despite appeals for a replay, FIFA rejected the request. The Football Association of Ireland said that the incident, which dominated news bulletins in Ireland all day as well as being discussed in parliament, had "damaged the integrity of the sport."
France 1–1 Republic of Ireland - Robbie Keane scored for Ireland and William Gallas scored for France on a controversial goal. Thierry Henry handled the ball twice before crossing to Gallas for the game-winning goal in extra time. Henry admitted handling the ball. "I have never denied that the ball was controlled with my hand," Henry said. ... "Naturally, I feel embarrassed at the way that we won and feel extremely sorry for the Irish who definitely deserve to be in South Africa," Despite appeals for a replay, FIFA rejected the request. The Football Association of Ireland said that the incident, which dominated news bulletins in Ireland all day as well as being discussed in parliament, had "damaged the integrity of the sport."
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