Ireland to Host Israel Nations League Tie After Security Assurances
The Republic of Ireland will play Israel at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on , the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) confirmed Wednesday. The decision follows assurances from An Garda Síochána, Ireland’s national police service, that a safe and secure environment can be provided for the Nations League fixture.
FAI Chief Executive David Courell stated that the Gardaí have a “strong track record of delivering very successful hosting of games” at the Aviva, including high-risk events like Europa League finals. “If they maintain that they can deliver [the game] in a safe and secure manner, then who am I to challenge that?” Courell said.
The confirmation comes after considerable debate and scrutiny surrounding the fixture, particularly given the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Several figures within Irish politics and football had called for a boycott of the match. However, the FAI ultimately determined that forfeiting the game would carry significant sporting and financial repercussions.
FAI President Paul Cooke outlined those consequences in a letter to General Assembly members, stating that a forfeit would result in the loss of six Nations League points, potential relegation to League C, and damage to Ireland’s seeding for Euro 2028 qualification and FIFA ranking. “Such outcomes would materially harm the long-term sporting interests of Irish football,” Cooke wrote.
Courell emphasized that the decision was not financially motivated, but acknowledged that refusing to fulfill the fixture would also have “significant financial and regulatory consequences.” He added that the FAI board could not act in a way that would breach its legal duties or expose the association to sanctions.
The situation mirrors challenges faced by other nations. Israel has been playing its ‘home’ matches in Hungary since November 2023, and Belgium relocated a Nations League game to Debrecen, Hungary, in September 2024, also citing security concerns.
The FAI’s decision arrives amidst other internal matters. Courell also addressed questions regarding the involvement of FAI Director of Football John Martin in a deal negotiated with the agent of Shamrock Rovers’ teenage striker Michael Noonan while Martin was chief executive of the club. The English FA and FIFA are investigating whether the contract breached rules on third-party ownership of a player.
Courell expressed confidence in Martin, stating that he has “landed unbelievably well” in his role with the FAI and demonstrated “fantastic leadership skills” and a strong understanding of the Irish game. Courell added that Martin maintains the deal was made in good faith, and that the FAI is “comfortable with the position and satisfied” with Martin’s explanation.
Separately, Minister for Sport Patrick O’Donovan has temporarily frozen government funding for artificial pitches following damage caused by flares during a recent Louth derby between Dundalk and Drogheda United. A 12-year-old supporter sustained minor burns after being struck by a flare. The cost of repairs is estimated at €70,000, and Drogheda United faces disciplinary action.
Courell acknowledged the seriousness of the incident, stating that the FAI’s thoughts were with the injured supporter and that the scenes were “unacceptable.” While he refrained from critiquing O’Donovan’s decision to pause funding, he affirmed that the Minister’s intention to highlight the issue was “justified.”
The confirmation of the Ireland-Israel match in Dublin allows the Irish team to focus on their Nations League campaign. The fixture presents a complex challenge, balancing sporting obligations with the sensitive geopolitical context. The FAI’s priority, as Courell reiterated, remains safeguarding the future of Irish football, even in the face of difficult decisions.