Ireland to play Nations League double-header against Israel after squad vote | OneFootball

Ireland will fulfil their two Nations League fixtures against Israel after a player vote, despite some favouring a boycott over the war in Gaza, according to L'Équipe.

The first meeting is scheduled for Sunday at 20:45 in Hungary, with Ireland having delayed their pre-match press conference and training to allow further talks between players, coaches and officials.

One player told the head coach he was uncomfortable with taking part and intended to withdraw, then a ballot held over roughly 90 minutes returned a clear majority in favour of playing.

Before their opening game of the window, a 0-1 defeat away to Kosovo, captain Dara O'Shea had said the squad would meet on Friday to decide a plan. On that basis the federation confirmed the Israel match would proceed as scheduled, consistent with its wish to honour the fixtures calendar.

Ireland will wear black armbands in memory of victims of the conflict, and some pre-match ceremonies will be cancelled.

RTÉ, days after reiterating its Eurovision boycott over Israel's participation, will air Israel v Ireland without commentary, presenting the broadcast without studio voices as a means of protest.

Source: L'Équipe

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