Republic of Ireland could have faced 'undetermined' sanctions had they not played their Nations League match against Israel on Sunday, according to FAI president Paul Cooke. Ireland and Israel players did not shake hands and the Irish squad bowed their heads when Israel's anthem was played before their 3-0 win in Hungary. The two Nations League fixtures, being played at neutral venues, have been embroiled in controversy since February when the two teams were drawn to play each other in Group B3.

Republic of Ireland players faced calls to withdraw from the games because of the ongoing Israel-Gaza war, with a "Stop The Game" campaign organised by Irish Sport for Palestine gathering pace. There was no exchange of pennants between Republic of Ireland captain Dara O'Shea and Israel skipper Manor Solomon, who did not shake hands. Cooke added that along with standard punishments for not fulfilling a fixture, there were also possible 'undetermined' extras.

When asked if Uefa threatened additional sanctions if one or both matches were not fulfilled, Cooke replied 'No,' stating the rules specify standard sanctions but reference other undetermined sanctions. The FAI confirmed a players' vote passed by a 'significant majority' to play the game. The second match will take place on 4 October in the Serbian town of Backa Topola.

Cooke praised the players and manager Heimir Hallgrimsson after the victory.