Scotland captain Caroline Weir says Fifa and Uefa should answer Israel questions ahead of World Cup qualifiers | OneFootball

Scotland women's captain Caroline Weir has firmly stated that questions surrounding the political implications of their upcoming World Cup qualifying matches against Israel should be directed at football's governing bodies, not the players.

The highly anticipated double header takes place in Budapest amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The decision to host both fixtures at the Bozsik Arena in the Hungarian capital comes as the conflict in Gaza continues. Local hospitals reported at least nine fatalities from Israeli strikes on Tuesday night.

Both sides estimate that more than 70,000 people have been killed in the region overall since the Hamas-led attacks on Israel in October 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and the taking of hostages.

Weir, speaking to BBC Scotland, acknowledged the validity of the concerns but stressed the players' position.

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Weir will lead Scotland out for their matches against Israel (Getty)

"I think it’s fair for the questions to be asked. We know that we’ve been in this situation before. I don’t think the questions are for the players," she said.

"I think the questions are for the governing bodies, Uefa, Fifa. I think it puts players in a very tricky position."

She added: "We’re not naive to the fact of what’s going on in the political situation. And those questions, rightly so, should be asked. But again, it’s not for players really to comment on that. It’s for people higher up that actually make the decisions."

The Scottish side previously faced Israel in June 2024, with their home game at Hampden played behind closed doors following a 30-minute delay caused by an on-field protest.

On the pitch, Scotland will be looking to build on their dominant 4-1 and 5-0 victories against Israel two years ago. Two more emphatic wins could see them top their qualifying group.

They are currently level on points with Belgium, but four goals better off, with Belgium set to play Luxembourg in their final Group B4 double header. Scotland have already secured a play-off spot, but topping the group would ensure a seeded position.

Head coach Melissa Andreatta offered her assessment of the opposition, stating: "They’re a very technical team and well-organised and structured to make it difficult for teams to play. They will try to get us on the counter attack. They have some great players who can finish chances and take goals from anywhere. That includes from set-pieces."