Electronic Arts has today apologised for a culturally sensitive blunder in FIFA 08 – in which the Northern Ireland football team stand to The Soldier's Song, traditionally sung at United Ireland sporting events.
A regional newspaper in Northern Ireland reports that fans reacted with 'surprise' to hear the anthem represent their national team in the game.
One fan posted a shocked comment on an internet football forum to simply say, "So Northern Ireland has no identity now I suppose."
