Uncertainty over letting the Ireland‑Israel duel go ahead on Sunday

On a cold evening in the Serbian village of Backa Topola the stands are empty, while the question hangs whether Ireland and Israel will face each other again on Sunday in the Nations League. Head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson confirmed that the Irish squad is still undecided. Last update: 07:44.

Players' vote could decide

Just like in the first leg, a vote among the players could take place. At that time, fourteen players voted for and eight against playing Israel. Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew and made himself unavailable for both fixtures.

On Thursday both nations play their respective Nations League‑partijen. Ireland host Austria, while Israel take on Kosovo in Hungary. Both games will go ahead as scheduled.

Hallgrimsson told the Irish media: “We are still undecided and therefore have not yet decided what we will do.” He added that the players were given a day off to spend time with family. First things first, they are now focusing on preparation for Austria.

Fans and public pressure

An online petition to cancel the return match has gathered almost twenty thousand signatures. Hundreds of Irish pubs have now confirmed they will not broadcast the game, just as in the first encounter. Opinions among fans remain strongly against a confrontation with Israel.

During the Israeli national anthem the Irish players bowed their heads and wore a black mourning ribbon in memory of the victims in Gaza. This gesture underscored the emotional weight of the possible confrontation.

Hallgrimsson described the situation as a psychological ordeal for which there is no training. He warned that if the players get through it together, future problems will carry less weight. After the recent uproar the Irish football association launched an investigation into possible racism‑incidenten involving Israeli supporters.

It remains to be seen whether the return match will take place on Sunday, a decision that reflects sport and the broader political tensions in the region. For now the Irish squad remains in an uncomfortable impasse, with the final choice still unclear. Sven Van Londersele Sport.