The Republic of Ireland has yet to confirm whether it will participate in its upcoming Nations League match against Israel scheduled for Sunday in Backa Topola, Serbia, amid growing calls for a boycott. The initial fixture between the two teams took place last Sunday in Hungary behind closed doors, drawing significant attention and controversy.
Ireland goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew from the squad on ethical grounds ahead of the first match, citing concerns related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Supporters of a boycott have gained momentum, with a petition urging Ireland to withdraw from matches against Israel amassing nearly 18,000 signatures. Demonstrations also took place outside the Irish team hotel in Dublin ahead of the opening game, reflecting widespread public unease. Additionally, hundreds of Irish pubs chose not to screen the first encounter and have pledged to repeat this stance for the forthcoming fixture.
The Irish team adopted visible gestures of protest during the initial match. Ireland captain Dara O’Shea avoided a customary handshake with Israel’s captain, Manor Solomon, and the Irish squad wore black armbands in recognition of lives lost amid the Gaza conflict. Furthermore, when the Israeli national anthem was played prior to kick-off, the Irish players deliberately looked downward, a deliberate move interpreted as a sign of dissent.
Following the game, Manor Solomon voiced frustration with the Irish players’ conduct. He stated that the Irish team directed derogatory remarks towards Israel during the match and dismissed their gestures as “nonsense.” Solomon expressed confidence ahead of the forthcoming encounter, asserting Israel’s resilience and pride in their country. “We have a country that is ten times better than theirs, stronger, an amazing country with amazing people,” he said. He also criticized the Irish players’ reaction to the anthem but emphasized his team’s commitment to representing Israel.
As the second leg approaches, the Irish Football Association remains under pressure from both internal and external voices regarding how to proceed. The situation highlights the increasingly fraught intersection of sport and geopolitical tensions, with players, fans, and officials navigating the complexities of competing amid deeply divisive international issues.