FAI president Paul Cooke defends Republic of Ireland's participation amid Nations League controversy
· Sports · BBC Sport, Sky Sports
Republic of Ireland secured a 3-0 victory over Israel in their Nations League match in Hungary on Sunday, with the Irish squad bowing their heads during Israel's anthem and refusing to exchange pennants. FAI president Paul Cooke confirmed the team would have faced undetermined sanctions had they not played, citing Uefa rules that specify standard punishments for not fulfilling fixtures alongside possible additional sanctions. The controversy stems from the ongoing Israel-Gaza war, with pressure group Irish Sport for Palestine organising a 'Stop The Game' campaign, and goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrawing from the squad in protest before a players' vote overcame concerns to confirm participation. Cooke defended the FAI's handling of the build-up, praising the players and manager Heimir Hallgrimsson after the win, while noting that a second fixture is scheduled for 4 October in Serbia's Backa Topola.
Why it matters
Republic of Ireland avoided potential Uefa sanctions and maintained their Nations League campaign, while the match result and player conduct highlighted ongoing political tensions surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict in international sport.
Read the original report — BBC Sport
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