Uefa to investigate half-time confrontation during Ireland-Israel game

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During the altercation at the TSC Arena in Backa Topola, it was reported that a member of the Republic’s backroom staff, fitness coach Damien Doyle, alleged he was spat at by an Israel player.

After the 1-1 draw Republic boss Heimir Hallgrimsson said he felt the sides should not play each other, calling on Uefa to “step in and do something.”

The European governing body has now confirmed it will look at the incident, with a spokesperson saying: “Following a review of the official reports which contained an allegation of an incident in or around the tunnel at half-time, a Uefa ethics and disciplinary inspector has been appointed to conduct the appropriate disciplinary investigation regarding potential misconducts from player(s) on the occasion of the Uefa Nations League 2027 league phase match between Republic of Ireland and Israel, played on 4 October 2026.”

The Republic sit third in group B3 after their first four Nations League fixtures.

In November they travel to meet leaders Austria in Linz then conclude the group stage against second-placed Kosovo in Dublin.

Men’s Football / 30 September 2026 Hallgrimsson says Republic will ‘focus on football’ and fulfil Israel fixture 30 September 2026 Men’s Football / 29 September 2026 Hallgrimsson says Irish squad are ‘all uncomfortable’ ahead of Israel tie 29 September 2026 Men's Football / 28 September 2026 Hallgrimsson appeals for Ireland fans to get behind team 28 September 2026 Men’s Football / 22 September 2026 Israel FA launches furious attack on Republic of Ireland boss 22 September 2026 Campaigners call for Ireland to boycott Sunday’s opener in Hungary