Ireland's black armbands mark win over Israel in Debrecen
Nächster ÖFB-Gegner Irland, Ireland secured a 3‑0 victory over Israel on Sonntag in Debrecen, scoring three times between the 13th and 25th minute. The match, part of the Nations League Group B3, saw the Irish side wear black armbands and forgo the customary post‑match handshake.
The match was played against the backdrop of Israel's military offensive in Gaza, which the Irish side described as a necessary evil. Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu had previously said he could not take part in the fixture for personal reasons.
Armbands and handshake boycott
Before kick‑off, association director David Courell announced that the Irish players would wear black armbands in memory of those killed in the conflict. During the Israeli anthem the Irish lowered their heads to the ground. There was Kein handshake between the Teams after the final whistle.
Three quick goals decide match
Troy Parrott of Betis Sevilla opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a low shot past Daniel Peretz. Adam Idah of Swansea added a second three minutes later, and Jack Moylan of Cardiff City completed the trio at the 25th minute. Moylan kissed the black armband after his goal.
EFE: Ireland protests against Israel with black wristbands over Gaza
Around a dozen Irish fans were present in the stadium, while roughly 150 Israeli supporters cheered their side. After the break Israel introduced former Salzburg player Oscar Gloukh, but the visitors never again threatened the Irish defence. Nach the match, both sides left the stadium quietly.
The win puts Ireland level on points with Austria at the top of Nations League Group B3, after Austria's 3‑1 victory over Kosovo. Heimir Hallgrimsson's side now leads the group, while Israel remains winless after two matches. The Austrian ÖFB Team will travel to Dublin on Thursday for their next fixture.
The return leg against Israel will be played away for Ireland on 4 October in the Serbian town of Backa Topola. Ireland will meet Austria in Dublin on Thursday as the next ÖFB opponent.
The match was photographed by AFP photographer Attila Kisbenedek in Debrecen. It formed the second round of the Nations League Group B3.