Ireland boss Hallgrímsson confirms Sunday's game against Israel to go ahead | OneFootball

The Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson has confirmed that his team will face Israel on Sunday.

For some time games between the two sides looked unlikely to be going ahead due to protests about Israel's participation in the UEFA Nations League considering the ongoing genocide in Gaza. However, the game did eventually go ahead in Hungary with Ireland easing to a 3-0 victory.

"The FAI has said we are playing both games and we will fulfil that," Hallgrimsson said in his pre-match press conference for Thursday's game against Austria which will be played in Dublin unlike the 'home' game that will take place in Serbia.

"That was our intention when we came into this camp. It has been really, really tough, especially on the players, but we are trying to focus on Austria. It is already decided that we are going to fulfil the games."

Hallgrímsson also supported the decision of goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu to refuse to play: "Gavin is a great lad. I’ve always had a good relationship with him. It is probably more tough for him than the other players but they have really welcomed him."

The manager also alluded to stories spread about the situation: "There have been a lot of lies said around all of this. But we welcome him back. And that he is taking part is amazing and it shows his character as well, to be with us. I want to give him praise for that. I want to give the players praise for how welcome they have been with him.

"Life goes on. Gavin is a part of this group. It shows how strong the bond is between these players. Even a thing like this is not breaking us. We are sticking together."