Brief
Ireland players refuse handshakes with Israel amid Gaza protests
During a UEFA Nations League fixture, Ireland’s squad lowered their heads and avoided handshakes with Israel’s team, reflecting domestic opposition to the country’s actions in Gaza.
By Felo News Desk · Published
In a match that drew attention for its political undertones, the Republic of Ireland’s national football team refused to shake hands with Israeli players and wore black armbands before the start of a UEFA Nations League game in Debrecen, Hungary, on Sunday, 27 September 2026.
Irish captain Dara O’Shea shook hands with the referee and assistants but deliberately avoided the Israeli captain Manor Solomon. Players stood with their hands behind their backs during Israel’s national anthem, and the team lowered their heads in a silent protest.
Reserve goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu had earlier withdrawn from both matches against Israel, citing a personal belief that the killing of innocent people is wrong. The Football Association of Ireland subsequently named defender Jimmy Dunne as a goalkeeper for the fixture.
The match was played behind closed doors, with no Irish tickets sold after cancellations by the Israeli soccer federation. A small group of Israeli fans were present, but the stadium remained largely empty. Ireland built a 3‑0 lead by halftime, with goals from Troy Parrott, Adam Idah and Jack Moylan.
Key facts
- Ireland players wore black armbands and avoided handshakes with Israeli players (independent.co.uk)
- Irish captain Dara O’Shea shook hands with the referee but not with Israeli captain Manor Solomon (independent.co.uk)
- Reserve goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew from both matches against Israel (independent.co.uk)
- The match was played behind closed doors with no Irish tickets sold (independent.co.uk)
- Ireland led 3‑0 at halftime with goals from Parrott, Idah and Moylan (independent.co.uk)
Background
Earlier Felo coverage noted that the Irish squad had voted to play the fixtures after a postponed press conference, and that the Football Association of Ireland had named Jimmy Dunne as goalkeeper following Gavin Bazunu’s withdrawal. The match was scheduled for 27 September 2026 in Debrecen, Hungary, and was part of the UEFA Nations League.
Timeline
- 2026-09-26 — Ireland to play Israel Nations League matches after player vote
- 2026-09-27 — Ireland names Jimmy Dunne as goalkeeper after Bazunu withdrawal
- 2026-09-27 — Ireland vs Israel Nations League match sparks boycott debate
Why it matters
The protest highlights the intersection of sport and politics amid international tensions over Gaza.
What happens next
Both teams will play a second Nations League fixture on 4 October 2026 in Serbia.
