Irish and Israeli players refuse to shake hands in controversial Nations League contest

The two captains, Dara O’Shea and Manor Solomon, who both play their football in England, shook hands with the officials and deliberately avoided each other.

Ireland are wearing black armbands for the match, which Ireland’s Football Association (FAI) chief executive, David Courell, confirmed yesterday were “in recognition of all lives lost in the [Gaza] conflict”.

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When the match kicked off, Israeli supporters were heard booing the Irish squad while they were in possession of the ball.

Ireland raced to a 3-0 lead in the opening half an hour, with Jack Moylan getting the third goal.

The Cardiff City winger celebrated by running towards the Israeli supporters, taking off his black armband and kissing it as well as his nation’s badge.

Ireland are without goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu for the contest, who has boycotted the match out of a matter of “principle”.

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He took to social media and explained his decision, writing: “Representing my country means everything to me.

“I have the utmost respect for every single one of my teammates, the manager, his staff, and the Irish people.

“However, I have reached a decision that I have not taken lightly. I am a man of strong faith, and try my best to be a person of character and principle, therefore I feel it would be wrong to participate in the upcoming fixtures against Israel.

“My decision is based purely on my personal belief that the killing of innocent people is wrong.”

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Bazunu continued: “It is important to note that my stance is not in opposition of the Israeli people or the Jewish community, but against the atrocities in the region.

“There are a few times where you get a chance in life to stand up for something bigger, and I strongly believe that this is one of them.”

There was much speculation about whether the game would go ahead, after other players also considered boycotting the match.

Players held a vote about whether to play the fixture, with the “majority” voting in favour of it going ahead.

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The FAI released a statement confirming the game will be played, and the reverse match against Israel on October 4 will go ahead

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.

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