Ireland Coach: Match Against Israel Will Not Be a Friendly

The Ireland national football team is set to face Israel again on Sunday, this time in a "home" match to be held at the TSC Arena in Bačka Topola, Serbia. This encounter follows Ireland's 3-0 victory over Israel earlier in the week and a subsequent 2-2 draw with Austria, where they squandered a two-goal lead. The match is taking place amidst protests in Ireland against its staging. "It's not going to be a friendly match," stated Ireland's coach, Heimir Hallgrímsson, in anticipation of the game. Originally scheduled for Ireland, the match was moved to a neutral venue in Serbia by the Irish Football Association and will be played behind closed doors, creating an unusual atmosphere for both teams. Hallgrímsson acknowledged the significant difference in playing in an empty stadium compared to a crowd of 45,000, emphasizing the need for his team to be prepared for this altered environment. Reports suggest Hallgrímsson may continue tactical adjustments, including a more attacking role for Adam Idah alongside Troy Parrott, with the two players rotating as central forwards. Hallgrímsson described Idah as a significant offensive threat who can also play as a striker. Midfielder Finn Azaz, who has Israeli heritage and did not play in the first match, is expected to feature. Irish media indicate Hallgrímsson might start Azaz with John Egan and Liam Scales, who performed well against Austria and were also absent from the initial game against Israel. The Irish squad has seen changes, with goalkeeper Josh Keely joining the delegation in Serbia, replacing Gavin Bazunu, who reportedly refused to play against Israel.