Ireland players vote to play Israel amid boycott threats

Ireland will move forward with its UEFA Nations League match against Israel after a majority of players indicated they wanted the game to be played.

Reports on Saturday stated that several Ireland players were considering pulling out of the match, which is set for Debrecen, Hungary on Sunday, Sept. 27.

The team's news conference and training on Saturday were delayed amid reports that goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu had informed his teammates that he would not play in the match.

The Football Association of Ireland released a statement later Saturday confirming that the game would go forward as planned.

"The Football Association of Ireland confirms that the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League fixtures against Israel will be fulfilled," the statement read.

"The Association made this decision following consultation with the Republic of Ireland players who shared different views and a majority expressed that the fixtures should be played.