Israel face spitting allegation as Ireland boss ‘delighted’ games are over
Ireland manager says ‘disciplinary committee will look at’ allegations Israel player spat at one of his coaching staff.

Ireland manager says ‘disciplinary committee will look at’ allegations Israel player spat at one of his coaching staff.




![UEFA Nations League - Group B3 - Republic of Ireland v Austria - Aviva Stadium, Dublin, Ireland - October 1, 2026 A steward carries tennis balls which were thrown onto the pitch as part of a protest during the match. [REUTERS/Cathal Mcnaughton]](https://www.aljazeera.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/image-1790937349.jpg?resize=770%2C433&quality=80)


Ireland played the first Nations League game despite unease among some players over Israel’s genocidal war in Gaza.
But the Irish football team can still redeem itself.
Israeli fans directed monkey chants at Ireland’s Adam Idah, who scored a goal in his team’s 3-0 Nations League win.
Israeli football fans chant military slogans after defeat to Ireland
Ireland’s players wore black armbands in support of Palestine, bowed their heads, and refused pre-match handshakes.
Ireland has been thrust into the global spotlight over two controversial Nations League football games against Israel.
Bazunu says his decision to withdraw was based on a ‘personal belief that the killing of innocent people is wrong’.
Crowd gathered on Garvaghy Road on Sunday to protest against a court ruling allowing the march.

Ireland’s players have voted to proceed with their Nations League fixture against Israel on Sunday.
Ireland have delayed their pre-match media briefing and training as pressure grew, but player vote avoids game boycott.