Uefa Opens Investigation into Republic of Ireland-Israel Half-Time Incident

Uefa has launched a disciplinary investigation into a half-time incident during Sunday's Nations League match between the Republic of Ireland and Israel in Backa Topola, Serbia. The governing body confirmed on Tuesday that an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to examine potential misconduct by player(s) during the 1-1 draw, which was played behind closed doors.

The investigation follows a review of official reports. According to the Irish Times, Republic of Ireland head of athletic performance Damien Doyle alleged he was spat at by an Israel player during the altercation. Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson later confirmed there was an "accusation of spitting" during the fracas. The Football Association of Ireland has been contacted for comment.

The match, part of the Uefa Nations League 2027 League Phase, had been contentious since the teams were drawn together in Group B3 in February. The "Stop The Game" campaign, organised by the pressure group Irish Sport for Palestine, staged protests before and during Thursday's game against Austria in Dublin, calling for a boycott due to the ongoing Israel-Gaza war. Despite this pressure, and goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu making himself unavailable, the FAI decided to fulfil both fixtures.

Tensions boiled over again at full-time, with players from both sides clashing. Hallgrimsson said he felt Israel "were trying to intimidate us from kick-off" but praised his players for staying calm. "It could have been a game of yellow and red cards but we were composed," he said. Israel head coach Ran Ben-Shimon said he did not see the half-time incident, as he was in the dressing room, and would check later.

The teams did not engage in pre-match formalities in either match, and Irish players bowed their heads during Israel's national anthem. Uefa's investigation is ongoing, and no timeline for a decision has been announced.

Source: BBC Sport

Image: Inpho / BBC Sport