The series has been defined by political demonstrations, with Irish players wearing black armbands for Gaza and bowing their heads during Israel's national anthem. Stand-in captain Caoimhin Kelleher refused to shake hands with the Israeli captain, and reserve goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew from the squad for both games in protest. Israeli players also wore armbands commemorating the October 7 attacks, and some supporters were recorded chanting for the IDF after the first match.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
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UEFA Investigates Israeli Player for Spitting on Irish Coach
Sports15 days ago
The UEFA Nations League fixture between Ireland and Israel took place in neutral Serbia after a pre-match press conference ended abruptly when Israeli journalists clashed with Irish media officials. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, but the governing body has now opened a disciplinary investigation into an Israeli player accused of spitting on a member of Ireland's coaching staff at halftime. This second encounter followed a 3-0 Irish victory in the first leg, during which UEFA declined to investigate reported monkey noises made by Israeli fans toward a Black Irish player.
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