UEFA opens investigation after spitting allegation in Ireland-Israel draw
UEFA is investigating an allegation of spitting during the half-time break of the Republic of Ireland's 1-1 draw with Israel.
The Nations League game, UEFA's league-style competition for national teams, was played on 4 October 2026 in Backa Topola, Serbia, behind closed doors. BBC Sport
Ireland allege that head of athletic performance Damien Doyle was spat at by an Israel player after the half-time whistle. Head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson confirmed the accusation was made during a fracas as the teams left the pitch. Players also clashed at full-time.
UEFA said it opened the case after a review of the official reports. It has appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector, its investigator for possible rule breaches, to examine potential misconduct by player or players.
Israel head coach Ran Ben-Shimon said he did not see the half-time incident. He said he was in the dressing room at the time.
There were no pre-match handshakes or other formalities at either fixture between the sides. Irish players bowed their heads during Israel's national anthem.
Tension had surfaced before kick-off. A press conference on 3 October was disrupted by arguments between Israeli journalists and Irish media. Reuters
The tie was played under unusual arrangements. The Football Association of Ireland said UEFA approved its request to move the 4 October fixture to a neutral venue overseas and play it without supporters. FAI
Ireland had won the earlier meeting 3-0 at the Nagyerdei Stadion in Debrecen on Matchday 2 in Group B3. That was described as their first victory of the Nations League campaign.
The FAI said it decided to fulfil both fixtures against Israel after consulting the players. Views differed in the squad, but a majority favoured playing. Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu made himself unavailable for both games.
Ireland had also asked UEFA to avoid pairing the sides together in future draws. UEFA defended its draw policy and that request was rejected. Reuters
For supporters following from afar, the football has been difficult to separate from what happened around it. Two games on neutral ground. No fans. No handshakes. Now the next step will come away from the pitch, when the inspector's investigation determines whether any charge follows.
