League: FIFA World Cup Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Coaching

Israel and Ireland clash amid rising tensions before World Cup qualifiers

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 23, 2026, 10:30 AM

Last updated Sep 23, 2026

Israel and Ireland clash amid rising tensions before World Cup qualifiers

Summary

Israel and Ireland are set to face off in a FIFA World Cup qualifying match series, igniting heated debates and protests. Irish coach Heimir Hallgrímsson has stated that none of his players want to participate, deeming the matches akin to "playing against genocide." This sentiment has drawn sharp criticism from the Israel Football Association. The two countries' relations have soured further after Ireland recognized a Palestinian state in 2024, prompting Israel to close its embassy in Dublin. Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin has publicly condemned remarks made by Israeli officials about Hallgrímsson. As the soccer matches approach, tensions continue to escalate, with protests expected.

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Key Details

•Two World Cup qualifying matches are scheduled between Israel and Ireland.
•Heimir Hallgrímsson described the matches as playing against genocide.
•Ireland recognized a Palestinian state in 2024, straining relations with Israel.
•Micheál Martin condemned Israeli officials' remarks about Hallgrímsson.
•Protests from Irish fans are anticipated leading up to the matches.

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