Uncertainty over Irish match: Israel not yet confirmed

Ireland remains uncertain whether the second international against Israel will go ahead, after the first match in Hungary took place amid protests from the Irish players. They wore mourning ribbons, received no coverage from the national broadcaster RTE, and the Israeli captain did not receive a handshake at the toss.

First Ireland‑Israel international and protests

The Jupiler Pro League competition has been in full swing for a while now. Last weekend matchday 7 was already underway, allowing the teams to rest briefly or prepare for the continuation of the international break. The first international between Ireland and Israel took place in Hungary. The Irish players expressed their displeasure by wearing mourning ribbons, there was no coverage from the national broadcaster RTE, and the Israeli captain did not receive a handshake at the toss. Clear signals, but in Ireland it was still loudly heard that it was a scandal that the Irish were playing against the country.

Turkey’s difficult international series

Head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson confirmed that doubts still remain about the second match, which was scheduled to be held in Serbia. He indicated that the situation is not yet clear and that a possible cancellation may still occur. Turkey made a strong impression against France, with goalkeeper Mike Maignan coming under pressure more often than against Belgium. Against Italy, Turkey fell behind 0‑3 within the first half‑hour and could not answer the Italian superiority. Moreover, the Turkish side is dealing with the aftermath of a disappointing World Cup qualification campaign that yielded zero points from two matches against Australia and Paraguay, without scoring a single goal; the defeat to Italy was the final straw for many supporters.

Denmark under pressure and fan controversies

Vincenzo Montella, head coach of Turkey, was met with a torrent of shouts for his resignation upon his return to the dressing room. He responded: “Resign? No. I believe in the work we have done,” and added: “I stayed with Turkey despite other offers. I continue to believe in these players and I support them.” Montella also emphasized that the performance before halftime was not at the level of the opponent and that lessons must be learned without losing confidence. The Danish head coach Brian Riemer was already under fire after the defeat to Norway, despite a comeback with two goals. Former international Thomas Gravesen accused Riemer of avoiding responsibility: “With every controversy Riemer tries to smother the issue at its inception,” and added: “After the failed World Cup qualification there must be an evaluation.” After the 2‑0 victory over Wales the team gained some breathing space, but criticism persisted. On Monday a portion of the crowd in the King Boudewijn Stadium loudly sang the Marseillaise, which placed disappointment above sporting respect. Days earlier there had already been criticism of whistling concerts during the national anthem at the Stadio Olimpico, further escalating the debate over fan behaviour.