UEFA Approves Ireland-Israel Match to Be Played Behind Closed Doors

UEFA has reportedly approved Ireland’s request to move its home match against Israel to a neutral venue, with the game to be played without spectators. Irish media said the European governing body accepted the Irish Football Association’s request, and the fixture is now expected to be held away from Ireland and behind closed doors.

The Irish association had asked this week to relocate the home match, and its board discussed the issue in two meetings, including a second session on Friday afternoon. The main focus was the match scheduled for October 4 at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, but the board ultimately decided to pursue the change.

The Irish association said its board has a duty “to protect the future interests of football in Ireland,” and described any decision on the match as “a matter for the association alone.” It also said Hungary is considered a reasonable destination.

The Israeli national team was mentioned at the end of the report, but no additional details were provided about its response or next steps. The Irish association is now expected to seek formal UEFA confirmation of the arrangement.