Israel is scheduled to host the Republic of Ireland in a Nations League fixture on September 27 at the Nagyerdei Stadion in Debrecen, Hungary. While a limited number of Israeli fans will be allowed into the stadium, no visiting Irish supporters will be accommodated. Due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, both matches between these teams will take place at neutral sites.
The return match on October 4 will occur in Serbia and will be held behind closed doors. The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) cited safety, security, and operational difficulties as the primary reasons for excluding traveling fans. Although there have been significant public calls for a boycott of these games, the FAI previously stated that such an action would negatively impact the future of Irish football.
These fixtures follow the start of the conflict in Gaza triggered by the October 7, 2023, attack led by Hamas. Since then, protests have emerged in Ireland regarding the matches, including disruptions at previous football events at the Aviva Stadium. The FAI maintains that despite the controversies, they are proceeding with the scheduled matches.
