Ireland Soccer Team Boycotts Israel Match, Wears Black Armbands

Ireland players wear black armbands and avoid handshakes in soccer game against Israel amid Gaza conflict tensions.

September 28, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Debrecen, Hungary — Ireland’s national soccer team refused to shake hands with their Israeli counterparts before a Nations League match on Sunday, wearing black armbands in protest of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The game, held in Debrecen, Hungary, saw no handshakes between players, with Irish captain Dara O’Shea keeping his hands behind his back during the pre-match ceremony. Reserve goalkeeper Gavin Bazuno had already announced his boycott of both matches against Israel, citing personal opposition to the violence in Gaza.

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Despite the tension, Ireland secured a 3-0 victory over Israel, with goals from Troy Parrott, Adam Idah, and Jack Moylan. The match drew minimal support from Irish fans, as some tickets were reportedly canceled by the Israeli football federation.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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