SoccerSep 26
Republic of Ireland to play Israel fixtures after majority player vote
The FAI has confirmed the Nations League matches will proceed despite boycott pressure and differing views within the squad.
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FAI confirms fixtures will go ahead
The Republic of Ireland will fulfil their 2026-27 UEFA Nations League fixtures against Israel after a majority of players supported playing the matches. The Football Association of Ireland confirmed its decision following consultation with the squad. It acknowledged that players held different views and stressed its respect for those positions given the sensitivity surrounding the games. The opening fixture is scheduled for Sunday in Debrecen, Hungary. Ireland’s designated home match will take place in Backa Topola, Serbia, on Oct. 4.
Delays create uncertainty
Preparations in Debrecen were disrupted on Saturday when both the team’s news conference and training session were postponed, prompting uncertainty over whether the match would proceed. Manager Heimir Hallgrimsson and a player had been scheduled to speak to the media during the morning. The news conference was eventually moved to 3.30 p.m. Local time, with training set to follow 15 minutes later. Players had previously announced plans to meet on Friday to discuss the situation.
Boycott calls remain
The decision comes amid pressure in Ireland to boycott the fixtures. More than 160 Irish sportspeople signed an open letter asking the FAI to reconsider, while protesters gathered outside the team’s Dublin hotel last week. Midfielder Jason Knight had expressed opposition to the matches after Thursday’s 1-0 defeat in Kosovo, describing the players’ position as difficult. Former Ireland coach Brian Kerr also criticised the association’s handling of the issue. The FAI had resisted boycott demands because of potential UEFA sanctions. Teams that fail to meet their obligations can face warnings or fines.
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