Republic of Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson admits Sunday's second Nations League fixture against Israel in Backla Topola will be intense rather than friendly, echoing Israel captain Manor Solomon's post-match comments from last week's 3-0 win in Debrecen.
Hallgrimsson revealed the controversy surrounding the Israel fixtures has taken a toll on his squad, with fatigue cited as a factor in Thursday's 2-2 draw with Austria in Dublin, where Troy Parrott scored a first-half brace before the hosts were pegged back.
"It is going to be tricky and challenging for the players to be ready, but we will do everything and the medical team will work day and night to get them fit and fresh," Hallgrimsson said. The Israel fixtures have dominated this international window, with the 'Stop The Game' campaign pressuring the Republic to withdraw. Protests occurred outside the Aviva Stadium, and the Austria match was briefly interrupted by a tennis ball protest and pitch invader.
Before last week's game in Debrecen, goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu made himself unavailable, while the squad ultimately voted to proceed, with FAI chief executive David Courell confirming a significant majority backed the decision.
Source: BBC Sport Football · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing