Nations League Ireland sees teams in mourning on arm during match

Sunday 4 October 2026, in the second Nations League match between Ireland and Israel, the Irish players again wore black armbands in memory of the victims in Gaza, bowing their heads during the Israeli national anthem, before the restart of the match, under the eyes of an attentive crowd.

The Israeli footballers also showed solidarity, wearing black armbands to remember the victims of the Hamas attacks of 7 October 2023. The gesture was received with respect by both teams.

Irish goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher took on the captaincy, replacing Dara O'Shea, who was released to assist his wife with the birth of their child. Kelleher deliberately avoided shaking hands with Israeli captain Dor Peretz.

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The black armbands on the arm underline how football continues to reflect geopolitical tensions, turning the pitch into a place of commemoration and dialogue.

The match goes on with both teams focused on the result, but the gesture remains the strongest memory of the evening.

This episode shows that, even in sporting competitions, players can express solidarity and respect for the victims of distant conflicts.