Republic of Ireland will play second Israel game - Hallgrimsson
Republic of Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson has publicly confirmed that his side will fulfil a second fixture against Israel. The decision comes amid ongoing political pressure and calls from some quarters to boycott Israeli football over the conflict in Gaza. Hallgrimsson, who took charge of Ireland in 2024, indicated the match will go ahead as scheduled by UEFA, with the fixture likely forming part of the UEFA Nations League or European Championship qualifying campaign. The confirmation provides clarity for both federations as the match calendar takes shape.
Read the full story at bbc.co.ukHallgrimsson's confirmation that Ireland will face Israel in a second fixture puts to rest weeks of speculation about whether the FAI would follow political calls to withdraw. For Ireland fans and the squad, it ends the uncertainty and allows full focus on preparing for the match. For UEFA, it underscores the governing body's commitment to keeping member associations involved regardless of geopolitical tensions, a stance that has drawn both support and criticism across European football.
Context added by Socc360, not by bbc.co.uk.
Data source: bbc.co.uk (via Socc360). Last updated .
More uefa nations league stories
Cristiano Ronaldo misses Portugal training amid reports of rift with coach Jorge Jesus
Kone: Italy-France is important, France in a complicated period
Explained: Cristiano Ronaldo's 'crisis' meeting with Portugal after not playing vs. Norway
Never miss a moment.
Live scores, goal alerts and Live Activities on your Lock Screen — get Socc360 for iOS.