Israel captain stokes feud by saying ‘our country is 10 times better than Ireland’
Israel's football captain, Manor Solomon, made inflammatory remarks about Ireland, stating Israel is "10 times better" and that "They hate us and we don't like them." This followed a Nations League match where Irish players protested Israeli military actions in Gaza by not shaking hands and turning away during the Israeli anthem.
Why it matters
This incident highlights the intersection of sports and geopolitics, reflecting deep-seated tensions and public sentiment regarding the Israel-Gaza conflict, even manifesting in international sporting events.
Republic of Ireland players bow their heads and wear black armbands during the Israel anthem. Republic of Ireland players bow their heads and wear black armbands during the Israel anthem. Nations League Israel captain stokes feud by saying ‘our country is 10 times better than Ireland’ Manor Solomon angry at Ireland’s stance over Gaza
Prefer the Guardian on Google Manor Solomon claimed Israel was “10 times better” than Ireland as fallout intensified from their Nations League match and stated bluntly: “They hate us and we don’t like them.”
Players in the Republic of Ireland side stared at the ground during Israel’s anthem and their staff faced away from the pitch. Ireland’s players also chose not to shake hands or exchange pennants with their opponents in protest at Israeli military actions in Gaza which have killed tens of thousands of people.
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