- Republic of Ireland confirmed that the Nations League match against Israel will go ahead, with players planning to wear black armbands in recognition of lives lost in the Gaza conflict.
- Following the withdrawal of goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu in protest, players held a meeting to discuss their stance on the fixture.
- FAI CEO David Courell stated that a vote among the squad resulted in a 'significant majority' in favor of playing the match.
- Opposition parties, including Labour, Social Democrats, and Sinn Féin, have called on the government to intervene and stop the match due to the pressure on players.
- Gavin Bazunu expressed his discomfort with the fixture, stating that he felt it would be wrong to participate in the match against Israel.
- The Irish government has stated that decisions regarding the fixtures lie with the FAI and Uefa, emphasizing their independence.
- Israel Football Association head of communications praised the Republic of Ireland team for confirming their participation, stating that "football has won".
The Republic of Ireland's football team is set to play Israel in a Nations League match in Hungary, despite significant controversy.1
One player, goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, withdrew from the squad in protest, stating, "My decision is based purely upon my personal belief that the killing of innocent people is wrong."25
Players will wear black armbands to honor lives lost in the Gaza conflict, a gesture confirmed by FAI chief executive David Courell, who noted a "significant majority" voted to proceed with the match.
Opposition parties have urged the Irish government to intervene, citing the pressure on players and management. Labour TD Ciarán Ahern emphasized the need for government support, stating, "Taking a stand against genocide is more important."46
Despite the withdrawal, the FAI maintains that the match will go ahead, with a spokesperson reiterating that the decision lies with the FAI and UEFA. Courell mentioned that players will also contribute to charitable donations from match fees.
Israel Football Association's Shlomi Barzel praised the decision to play, asserting that "football has won" and emphasizing the need to separate sports from politics. The match is set to take place amid ongoing discussions about the implications of playing during such a sensitive time.7
“Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew, saying he felt it would be 'wrong to participate' against Israel, while FAI CEO David Courell said a players' vote passed by a 'significant majority' to play. Opposition TDs, including Sinn Féin's Joanna Byrne, called the decision an 'ultimate betrayal' and urged government intervention.”
BBC
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