Incidents and protests dominate Ireland‑Israel duel

The second meeting between Ireland and Israel in the B‑division of the Nations League took place on neutral ground in the Serbian village Backa Topola and ended in a 1‑1 draw, while before, during and after the match numerous incidents occurred.

Before, during and after the match

Beforehand the Irish players bowed their heads during the Israeli national anthem and no handshakes were made. Israel wore mourning bands in memory of the victims of the Hamas attack on 7 October 2023. Just like a week earlier Ireland called for a moment of silence for all victims of the war in Gaza.

During the halftime a Irish staff member was allegedly spat on by an Israeli player. At that moment Ireland were leading 1‑0 thanks to a penalty from Troy Parrott, which gave him his fourth goal in the last three internationals.

In the second half the Israeli captain Dor Peretz equalised. After the match footage showed that Ajax player Oscar Gloukh had to be restrained by his teammates.

Irish national team coach Heimir Hallgrímsson called on UEFA to separate the two countries in future draws. He stated that fatigue after a heavy international period had played a role, but praised his players for their composure during the skirmishes.

Hallgrímsson's press conference was shortened on Saturday after tensions between Israeli journalists and the Irish staff. The first‑leg match was almost boycotted by Ireland, but eventually went ahead after a vote among the players, with Ireland winning 0‑3.

Hallgrímsson emphasized that a separation in the draws is necessary to prevent further incidents. He hoped that UEFA would take action quickly.