Ford Football Fern Hannah Wilkinson has been given a three-match ban from international football by FIFA following her red card against Chile in the game on Saturday 23 September [local] / Sunday 24 September [NZT].

The first match of the three-match ban has already been served with Wilkinson missing the Ford Football Ferns second game in Santiago vs Chile on Tuesday 26 September [local] / Wednesday 27 September [NZT].

Wilkinson will now be unavailable for the Ford Football Ferns next two matches.

Speaking on the ban, Wilkinson expressed regret for the incident and accepted FIFA’s decision:

“I fully accept this outcome and thank FIFA for the speed in reaching the decision. 

“While it was a genuine accident, I have apologised to the officials in person. 

“I don't condone physical contact with an official, or anyone. 

“I had my back turned and was unaware how close she was at the time and fully regret that this happened.

“I will be supporting the team from afar for their next two games and can't wait to re-join them after I have served the ban.”

Article added: Friday 29 September 2023