What happened between Ireland and Israel in their Nations League match?
Tensions between the Irish and Israeli national football teams escalated during a Nations League match in Serbia, marked by allegations of spitting and a lack of traditional handshakes. The incident follows intense public pressure in Ireland to boycott the match due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Why it matters
It illustrates how geopolitical conflicts increasingly impact international sports, creating diplomatic and security challenges for governing bodies.
Spitting allegations, no handshakes, and bowed heads headlined the second Nations League fixture.
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Irish players had been under pressure from home – where affinity with Palestinians is strong – to boycott the second match against Israel [Pedja Milosavljevic/AFP] By Anushe Engineer Published On 5 Oct 2026 5 Oct 2026 Tensions between the football teams of Israel and Ireland reached a flashpoint during the second leg of their Nations League fixture in Serbia, bringing an end to a politically charged two weeks.
The League 3 Group B match ended in a 1–1 draw at the TSC Arena in Backa Topola on Sunday, but tempers flared and accusations flew despite the game being held behind closed doors and at a neutral venue.
It built on the confrontational nature of their first match on September 27, when Ireland defeated Israel 3-0 .
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