France coach Raymond Domenech doesn’t feel guilty after Thierry Henry’s handball vs Ireland

France coach sees no need for handball apology

PARIS — France coach Raymond Domenech says he and his players see no reason to apologize for the Thierry Henry handball against Ireland that put the team into the World Cup.

Domenech said his team does not feel guilty about the way Henry handled the ball with his left hand before setting up William Gallas’ goal against Ireland on Wednesday.

The goal gave France a 2-1 aggregate win after two legs of the playoff.

Domenech said on L’Express magazine’s Web site that he “didn’t understand why we have been asked to apologize.”

FIFA on Friday rejected Ireland’s request for a replay.