During the Israeli national anthem, Ireland’s players stood looking down at the grass, their heads bowed and hands held behind their backs.
By Shula Rosen
Ireland’s players declined to shake hands with their Israeli opponents, bowed their heads during Israel’s national anthem and wore black armbands Sunday before a Nations League match in Debrecen, Hungary, following intense pressure in Ireland to boycott the game over Israel’s actions in Gaza.
Irish captain Dara O’Shea approached the center of the field before kickoff with his hands clasped firmly behind his back.
He shook hands with German referee Harm Osmers and his assistants but made no attempt to shake hands with Israel captain Manor Solomon.
During the Israeli national anthem, Ireland’s players stood looking down at the grass, their heads bowed and hands held behind their backs.
Reserve goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu had left the Irish squad Saturday and withdrew from both matches against Israel, citing his “personal belief that the killing of innocent people is wrong.”
Ireland went on to win 3-0, with Troy Parrott scoring in the 13th minute. Adam Idah added a second goal three minutes later, and Jack Moylan made it 3-0 in the 25th.
Few spectators attended the match. A small group of Israeli supporters was present, while around 10 people without team colors celebrated Ireland’s opening goal.
Irish fans were not expected to attend. Some supporters who obtained tickets through the Israeli soccer federation told Irish broadcaster RTÉ that their tickets had been canceled Saturday night.
Israel increased the pressure after halftime, but Irish goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher kept the team scoreless. Tempers flared around the hour mark when Idah and Raz Shlomo clashed, resulting in yellow cards for both players.
Israel forward Sayed Abu Farchi was suspended from Sunday’s match after being sent off following his goal celebration in Thursday’s 3-1 loss to Austria.
Ireland and Israel are scheduled to meet again Oct. 4 in Ireland’s “home” match in Backa Topola, Serbia.
Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!
Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.
Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!