Israel and Ireland Nations League matches to proceed with limited or no spectators
Israel will play its home Nations League tie against the Republic of Ireland in Hungary with a small number of Israeli fans allowed, while the return match in Serbia will be held behind closed doors.
Israel's home leg against the Republic of Ireland in the Nations League will take place on 27 September at Hungary's Nagyerdei Stadion in Debrecen, with a limited quota of Israeli fans permitted to attend. The reverse fixture on 4 October will be hosted in Serbia and will be played without any spectators. The FAI explained that logistical difficulties and security worries forced the closed-door arrangement, even as protestors outside the Irish parliament have urged a boycott.
The Israel Football Association has agreed to the small fan allocation for the Hungarian venue. The matches occur against the backdrop of the Israel-Gaza war, which has generated significant public pressure and activism, including a "Stop the Game" campaign by Irish Sport for Palestine.
Why it matters
The games illustrate how international sport is being shaped by security concerns and political pressure from the Israel-Gaza conflict.
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