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Ireland-Israel Nations League Match Set for Dublin

BBC Sport Football •
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The Republic of Ireland will host Israel in a Nations League fixture at Dublin's Aviva Stadium on 4 October, the Football Association of Ireland has confirmed. This decision follows security concerns that had raised the possibility of a neutral venue after Belgium's home game against Israel was relocated to Hungary last September.

Initially, reports suggested the match might be moved due to ongoing Middle East tensions. However, Gardaí advised that the game can be staged safely at the Aviva Stadium. The FAI president Paul Cooke stated the decision came after legal consultation and discussions with stakeholders, acknowledging it would be difficult for many supporters.

The teams are also scheduled to face each other in a return fixture on 27 September, with Israel hoping to host in Tel Aviv though a venue remains unconfirmed. The Republic of Ireland will also face Austria and Kosovo in League B3. This fixture comes despite the FAI having previously voted to urge UEFA to ban Israel from competitions, citing violations of UEFA statutes regarding settlements in occupied territories.