Tensions flare as Ireland and Israel draw in empty Serbian arena

In a tense, behind‑closed‑doors Nations League meeting in Serbia, the Republic of Ireland and Israel shared a 1‑1 draw after Troy Parrott’s first‑half penalty was levelled by Dor Peretz early in the second period. The match took place at the 4,500‑seat TSC arena in Backa Topola, with both sides wearing black armbands.

Penalty gives Ireland early lead

Troy Parrott stepped up after a VAR‑confirmed penalty in the 39th minute and sent Assaf Tzur the wrong way, slotting the ball into the bottom corner. The spot‑kick came after Aaron Dunne was brought down by Dor Peretz in the box. Parrott, who has now scored ten times in his last seven competitive internationals, marked his 10th of Ireland’s last 13 competitive goals.

Equaliser sparks renewed tension

Two minutes after the restart, Dor Peretz restored parity by finding the net, his finish slipping past Caoimhin Kelleher. The goal came after an Oscar Gloukh effort deflected off Liam Scales, creating the low‑driven shot. The match, played behind closed doors, remained level at the break.

As the teams headed to the tunnel, a clash broke out between players and staff, prompting security to intervene. Referee Juan Martinez Munuera warned both sides to “be clever” before the second half began.

The second half saw end‑to‑end play but few clear chances, with Israel’s Assaf Tzur making a fingertip save from Chiedozie Ogbene’s effort just over fifteen minutes from time. A subsequent Gloukh strike clipped the woodwork after the same save. Ireland’s Jayson Molumby had earlier blasted a shot wide in the 22nd minute, while Adam Idah’s early attempt was palmed away by Tzur.

In added time, officials broke up a second altercation as tempers flared once more. Heated words were exchanged after the final whistle, underscoring the ill‑tempered nature of the encounter.

Both teams wore black armbands; the Irish side did so to honour all lives lost in the Israel‑Hamas conflict, as explained by FAI chief David Courrell. Israel’s armbands bore “7.10” to mark the October 7, 2023 attack, and captain Caoimhin Kelleher, standing in for Dara O’Shea, did not shake hands with Peretz, though both greeted officials.