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Republic of Ireland set to face Israel in neutral venue amid tensions

BBC Football • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 22, 2026, 1:16 PM

Last updated Sep 22, 2026

Republic of Ireland set to face Israel in neutral venue amid tensions
Summary

The Republic of Ireland will play Israel on Sunday at a neutral stadium in Debrecen, Hungary, for a UEFA Nations League match. This fixture, with limited coverage, follows significant opposition from fans and political circles regarding Israel's military actions in Gaza. The Football Association of Ireland voted in July to proceed with the matches amid concerns over UEFA sanctions and financial impacts. There are no ticket sales for Irish fans for either the away or home match scheduled for October in Backa Topola, Serbia. Protests against the matches have intensified, with notable public figures endorsing a boycott.

Source Links
BBC Football
Key Details
  • •Ireland faces Israel in Hungary on September 24
  • •No tickets for Irish fans at both matches
  • •FAI voted 75-32 to play despite protests
  • •RTE limits broadcast coverage of the fixtures
  • •Next fixture between teams is on October 4 in Serbia
Latest Updates
  • 1:16 PMBBC Football — Neutral venues and no 'away' fans - how Israel v Republic of Ireland became so contentious
What they're saying
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BBC Sport explores the backdrop to the Republic of Ireland's matches against Israel, amid fraught tensions between the nations.

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