Ireland-Israel tensions rise after alleged spitting incident

Tensions between Ireland and Israel increased after an alleged spitting incident during their Nations League meeting in Serbia on Sunday. The match ended 1-1 and was played without spectators, with the claim involving a member of Ireland’s coaching staff during the half-time interval.

Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson said he had not witnessed the alleged incident but expected it, along with other events from the match, to be reviewed. He also felt Israel had tried to intimidate his team from the opening whistle. Hallgrimsson praised his players for remaining composed and avoiding a contest dominated by yellow and red cards.

Israel coach Ran Ben Shimon said he was inside the dressing room with his staff during the interval and did not see what happened. He said he would check the circumstances before responding. Ben Shimon also rejected the suggestion that Ireland midfielder Jason Molumby had been deliberately targeted, saying Israel did not instruct players to act violently against opponents.

The latest tension follows Ireland’s 3-0 victory over Israel in their previous meeting in Hungary, after which both teams faced accusations over offensive behaviour. Ireland has been among the European countries most critical of Israel’s war in Gaza, and its football association selected Serbia as the venue without fans amid pressure to withdraw from the fixtures.