Uefa opens probe into spitting allegation at Ireland Israel Nations League match

Match context and venue details

The fixture ended in a one goal each draw after being hosted behind closed doors in Backa Topola. The Football Association of Ireland chose this neutral location due to protests regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Both teams wore black armbands during the match to commemorate victims of the war.

The reported incident and response

Reports state that an Israeli player was accused of spitting at a member of the Irish coaching staff as the sides left the pitch. An appointed ethics inspector will review official match reports to determine if misconduct occurred by any player. A spokesperson for the Israeli Football Association denied the claim that anyone spat towards the coach.

Previous encounter and squad vote

The two sides met earlier in Hungary where Ireland won three goals to nil following a squad vote on participation. That previous match also proceeded without pre game handshakes or exchange of pennants between the opposing teams.