Neutral venues and no 'away' fans - how Israel v Republic of Ireland became so contentious
Reports have claimed the FAI was concerned protests could prevent the match from taking place in Dublin.The FAI gave no official reason for the selection of Backa Topola, but choosing a venue in Serbia - in a town so remote - in theory renders security management easier and reduces the possibility of protest. In 2025, Serbian foreign minister Marko Duric described Israel as one of Serbia's "closest friends and strategic partners". The signatories include boxer Tyrone McKenna and former European champion athlete Ciara Mageean.FAI CEO David Courrell said last week Uefa had rejected a request for the teams to be kept apart in future draws, director of football John Martin described the games as a "very uncomfortable situation for everyone".
- ▪Reports have claimed the FAI was concerned protests could prevent the match from taking place in Dublin.The FAI gave no official reason for the selection of Backa Topola, but choosing a venue in Serbia - in a town so remote - in theory rend
- ▪In 2025, Serbian foreign minister Marko Duric described Israel as one of Serbia's "closest friends and strategic partners".
- ▪The signatories include boxer Tyrone McKenna and former European champion athlete Ciara Mageean.FAI CEO David Courrell said last week Uefa had rejected a request for the teams to be kept apart in future draws, director of football John Mart
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| Publication time | Tue, 22 Sep 2026 13:16:49 GMT |
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Neutral venues and no 'away' fans - how Israel v Republic of Ireland became so contentiousImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Israel have not played a fixture on home soil for three years, since the beginning of the Gaza war, and have used Hungary as a home base for 10 fixtures in that timeByDaniel AustinBBC Sport senior journalistPublished16 minutes agoAn elite-level European football match will be played on Sunday at a neutral stadium, with no 'away' fans, and reduced television coverage.That the match is even taking place had been in doubt - one side had to vote on a motion confirming whether or not they would participate amid significant opposition from fans, pundits and politicians.But the vote confirmed the fixture would go ahead, and now the Republic of Ireland will travel to…
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