The Republic of Ireland will face Israel in the UEFA Nations League on Sunday, with the fixture attracting significant attention after Ireland’s players voted to proceed with the match despite calls for a boycott over Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.
The match will be played in Debrecen, Hungary, without Irish supporters in attendance. Ireland goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu has withdrawn from the fixture, saying he could not take part because of his opposition to the killing of civilians in the conflict. The Irish team will also wear black armbands, while players will not participate in the usual pre-match handshake and pennant exchange.
Meanwhile, England are reflecting on their 3-2 defeat to Spain at Wembley in the opening round of the Nations League. England led at half-time but Spain recovered to secure victory, with defensive errors and a missed penalty by Harry Kane among the major talking points.
The 2026/27 Nations League league phase runs from September to November, with Matchday 2 scheduled from September 27 to 29. England will next face Czechia on Tuesday, while Spain meet Croatia on the same day.
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