Ireland defeats Israel in controversial UEFA Nations League match | Football News
Ireland Defeats Israel 3-0 Amid Controversial Pre-Match Protests
BUDAPEST, Hungary (September 27, 2026) — The Republic of Ireland secured a 3-0 victory against Israel in their first of two matches in the UEFA Nations League, amidst international calls for a boycott of the fixture.
In a show of solidarity with Palestinians affected by recent violence in Gaza, Ireland’s players wore black armbands during the match. They bowed their heads during the Israeli national anthem and refrained from shaking hands with their opponents. Ireland’s captain, Dara O’Shea, announced plans to donate his match earnings to support aid efforts in Gaza.
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) confirmed before the match that players would wear the armbands “in recognition of all lives lost in the conflict.” FAI chief executive David Courell stated that the decision followed extensive discussions and a vote among the team. Israel was informed in advance about the players’ intention to forgo the pre-match handshake, and UEFA accepted the arrangement.
Despite the FAI’s participation, Republic of Ireland’s starting goalkeeper, Gavin Bazunu, publicly opted out of the match, stating via social media that he believed it was inappropriate to compete against Israel amid the ongoing conflict. Bazunu will miss both this match and the rematch scheduled for October 4 in Backa Topola, Serbia.
The match took place despite significant pressure on the FAI to withdraw due to ongoing violence in Gaza. Since May, numerous Irish athletes, supported by the campaign group Irish Sport for Palestine, have called for a boycott of the match. More than 160 athletes signed an open letter urging the FAI to reconsider its decision.
Supporters of the campaign argue that Israel has violated UEFA and FIFA regulations by permitting games on occupied Palestinian territory and contend it should be expelled from both football organizations.
The Republic of Ireland’s actions during the match have drawn attention to the broader conversation about sports and political expression in the context of international disputes.
