Republic of Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson said his squad deliberately avoided pre‑match handshakes with Israel, bowing during the anthem and wearing black armbands to protest the Gaza conflict. Despite the controversy, Ireland played the UEFA Nations League game in Hungary, winning 3‑0 with Jack Moylan scoring and removing his armband after the goal.
The Republic of Ireland delayed its pre‑match press conference ahead of the UEFA Nations League clash with Israel in Debrecen, Hungary, after pressure from the “Stop The Game” campaign. Former manager Brian Kerr and player James McClean have called for a boycott, while the team faces internal debate and uncertainty over the fixture.
Republic of Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson told the media he has spoken to every player in the squad individually about the prospect of facing Israel in the Nations League, saying none feel comfortable with the fixtures. The two matches will be played at neutral venues – Israel’s ‘home’ game in Hungary on 27 September and the return in Serbia on 4 October – and the FAI has confirmed the home tie will be behind closed doors.
Seamus Coleman, the 37‑year‑old former Everton captain, was left out of the 26‑man Republic of Ireland squad for the forthcoming Nations League fixtures. Manager Heimir Hallgrimsson explained the decision was partly due to Coleman being club‑less and wanting to give opportunities to other players, while several other squad members also miss out because of injuries.
The Republic of Ireland’s Nations League match against Israel has been relocated to the TSC Arena in Backa Topola, Serbia, and will be played behind closed doors. The move follows protests and boycott campaigns, with the Football Association of Ireland citing potential relegation and ranking impacts if fixtures are not fulfilled.