Irish Soccer Players Refuse Handshakes With Israelis, Wear Black Armbands

Irish national soccer team players demonstratively refused to shake hands with their Israeli counterparts and bowed their heads during the Israeli anthem before a Nations League match in Debrecen, Hungary. According to "The Times of Israel," the Irish team wore black armbands in memory of those killed in the conflict and did not exchange handshakes after the game, which Ireland won 3-0. The Irish side had informed UEFA in advance of their intention not to shake hands with the Israeli players, and the European football governing body did not object. Ireland's captain, Dara O'Shea, approached the center circle with his hands behind his back, shaking hands with the referees but not with Israel's captain, Manor Solomon. The traditional exchange of team pennants also did not occur. During the anthem, the entire Irish team lowered their heads, and head coach Stephen Kenny turned his back to the field. The Irish delegation stated the black armbands were a tribute to all victims of the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The match's staging had been uncertain due to pressure within Ireland for the team to boycott games against Israel, but a majority of players voted to play. Only reserve goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu opted out. The Football Association of Ireland did not provide tickets to its fans, and state broadcaster RTÉ significantly reduced its coverage. The sparsely attended match saw a few hundred Israeli fans and only a handful of Irish supporters. Ireland secured the victory within the first 25 minutes with goals from Troy Parrott (14th minute), Adam Idah (16th minute), and Jack Moylan (25th minute). Following the game, Israeli captain Manor Solomon reported that some Irish players made offensive remarks towards the Israelis during the match. Israeli goalkeeper Daniel Peretz described the Irish team's actions as ignorant and apologized to fans for the defeat. The return match between Israel and Ireland is scheduled for October 4th in Bačka Topola, Serbia, also to be played at a neutral venue.