UEFA Launches Inquiry into Republic of Ireland‑Israel Dispute Over Alleged Spitting Incident

Both matches, held at neutral sites, have been mired in controversy since February, when the two sides were placed in Group B3.

Republic of Ireland players were repeatedly urged to boycott the fixtures amid the ongoing Israel‑Gaza conflict, as the “Stop The Game” campaign, organized by Irish Sport for Palestine, staged protests before and during Thursday’s Dublin match against Austria.

Tensions escalated in Serbia, where players from both teams confronted each other at the match’s conclusion.

After the match, Hallgrimsson said he perceived Israel’s actions as an attempt to intimidate his team from the outset.

“I commend the players for maintaining composure; despite the potential for yellow or red cards, they remained calm and effectively managed their emotions,” he said.

When asked about the incident at halftime, Israel head coach Ran Ben‑Shimon stated that he had not observed anything.

“During halftime I was in the dressing room with my staff,” he said.

“I saw nothing. When I have an opportunity to review, I will get back to you. I saw nothing; I was in my room.”

Despite pressure urging a boycott and goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu’s unavailability for both matches, the Football Association of Ireland chose to honour both fixtures.

Both teams omitted traditional pre‑match formalities, and Irish players bowed their heads during Israel’s national anthem.

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