Ireland to play controversial Israel Nations League fixtures after player vote

The Republic of Ireland 's contentious Nations League matches against Israel will proceed as scheduled following a vote among the squad.

Doubts had surrounded Sunday's opening fixture in Debrecen after a planned press conference was postponed until Saturday afternoon.

However, clarity was provided when the Football Association of Ireland released a statement confirming the games would go ahead after the players held talks for four hours on Saturday.

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

"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.

Jason Knight said earlier this week that the game should not go ahead (PA)

"The Association respects the views of all players involved and appreciates the level of sensitivity concerning these fixtures."