Israel

FAI Confirms Ireland Will Play Israel After Squad Vote as Goalkeeper Bazunu Pulls Out

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Courtroom-sketch editorial illustration of Republic of Ireland footballers in green lining up a free kick at a May 2010 friendly against Algeria; archival team context, not the 2026 squad or the Israel fixtures, rendered in warm ochre and slate-blue pastel strokes.

The Football Association of Ireland confirmed on September 26 that Ireland will play both of its 2026-27 UEFA Nations League fixtures against Israel, after consulting players who shared different views. Chief executive David Courell said a squad vote returned a "significant majority" in favor of playing. Reserve goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew from the squad, telling teammates he did not want to take part in the games against Israel. The first match is set for September 27 in Debrecen, Hungary, and the October 4 fixture will be played in Serbia. Irish players plan to wear black armbands and skip handshakes and a joint team photo.

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