Ireland’s players last night bowed their heads during the Israel national anthem and did not shake hands with their opponents before the Nations League clash in Hungary
The fixture has been shrouded in controversy after the Irish team and officials came under huge pressure to stage a boycott due to Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew from the squad, with the Bolton star saying ‘I am a man of strong faith and try my best to be a person of character and principle’.
‘My decision is based purely upon my belief that the killing of innocent people is wrong,’ he addded. ‘It is important to note that my stance is not in opposition to the Israeli people or the Jewish community but against the atrocities in the region.’
Players voted to fulfil the fixture and also agreed to wear black armbands in recognition of all the lives lost in the conflict. Ireland also decided against giving a pennant to Israel to mark the match – a standard gesture in all international fixtures.
The customary pre-match handshake did not take place and during the playing of the Israel anthem, Ireland’s starting XI looked towards the floor in unison – as did their substitutes.
Ireland won 3-0 after first-half goals from Troy Parrott, Adam Idah and Jack Moylan, who took off his black armband and kissed it when celebrating. There were no handshakes as full time and Ireland’s players were booed as they left the field.
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