Hallgrimsson justifies Ireland's Nations League duel with Israel
The Irish national team has confirmed that the Nations League duel against Israel will take place on Sunday evening in Debrecen, despite intense protests. The CEO of the Irish football association (FAI) announced the decision at a press conference in Hungary, while goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu is withdrawing from the squad.
Decision after hours of discussion
After a 1‑0 defeat to Kosovo, players and staff gathered for a two‑hour meeting. A majority then voted to continue the match, according to the CEO of the FAI, who resumed the press conference four hours later. The vote was described as a ‘significant majority’.
Head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson emphasized: “It is still an ongoing discussion. We do not have a conclusion yet. No one feels comfortable playing in this match. We are trying to handle it in the best possible way.”
Early on Saturday a player expressed that he did not feel comfortable and wanted to withdraw from the squad. A new open four‑hour discussion followed, in which respect for everyone’s opinion was emphasized. In the end another vote was taken and the decision confirmed.
Uncertainty fades as Ireland confirm Israel clash in Debrecen
Controversy surrounding Gaza
The match, officially a home game for Israel, is being played in Debrecen without away supporters. Players who do take part wear black armbands, while goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu is the only one withdrawing. The press moment was photographed by Sportsfile and distributed via Getty Images.
In Ireland the duel is controversial because of the war in Gaza; months‑long protests have affected sporting events. In July the General Assembly of the FAI approved the continuation of the Nations League matches with 75 votes in favour, 32 against and three abstentions, out of a total of 114 delegates. The association warned that a boycott could cause ‘significant and lasting damage’ and a loss of €10.3 million.
Ireland decides Nations League duel with Israel despite boycott
Hallgrimsson responded to questions from Israeli journalists: “It is a strong word and the wrong word to use,” he said regarding his earlier statement ‘We do not play with genocide, we play against genocide.’ He added that playing the match does not constitute support for the events in Gaza.