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Ireland Israel handshake boycott sparks Nations League controversy

BBC Sport Football •
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Republic of Ireland and Israel players refused to shake hands before their Uefa Nations League match in Hungary, continuing a row over the Israel-Gaza conflict. After performing their national anthems at Nagyerdei Stadion, the teams did not exchange handshakes or pennants. The fixture has been embroiled in controversy since February, with Irish players facing pressure to withdraw through a 'Stop The Game' campaign by Irish Sport for Palestine.

Despite this, the squad voted to proceed with the game during a meeting in Debrecen. Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu later withdrew, stating it 'would be wrong to participate'. The Irish players wore black armbands, with FAI chief executive David Courell saying this was 'in recognition of all lives lost in the [Gaza] conflict'.

Jack Moylan removed and kissed his armband after scoring. Irish fans were jeerled by a small number of Israel supporters present at the match.