The Republic of Ireland’s upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures against Israel will go ahead under strict attendance restrictions, with away supporters excluded from both matches due to security and operational considerations.
Because of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, neither team will play on home soil. Israel’s designated home fixture is scheduled for 27 September at Nagyerdei Stadion in Debrecen, Hungary, where a limited number of Israeli supporters will be allowed to attend.
The return match on 4 October will take place in Serbia behind closed doors, meaning no spectators will be admitted. The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) said the decision followed a detailed assessment of logistical, safety and security factors, despite acknowledging the strong support Ireland regularly receives from travelling fans.
The Israeli Football Association confirmed that only a small allocation of its own supporters will be present at the match in Hungary, while no away fans will be accommodated at either fixture.
The FAI has continued to reject calls for Ireland to boycott the Nations League ties, maintaining that withdrawing from the competition would have serious consequences for Irish football.
Public pressure over the fixtures has continued throughout the conflict in Gaza. Demonstrations have been held outside Ireland’s parliament urging the national team not to play Israel, while campaign groups have also called for sporting action.
Earlier this year, Ireland’s friendly against Qatar at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium was interrupted twice after tennis balls bearing Palestinian flags were thrown onto the pitch. Campaign group Irish Sport for Palestine has also launched its “Stop the Game” initiative, urging sporting bodies to suspend fixtures involving Israel.