Ireland players lower heads during Israel’s national anthem, wear black armbands in Nations League match

Republic of Ireland players wearing black armbands in recognition of all lives lost in the Gaza conflict bow their heads and during the Israel national anthem before the match. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Ireland’s players came out wearing black armbands for their match with Israel in Hungary, which almost did not take place due to heavy pressure back in Ireland on the team to boycott the game over the war in Gaza.

Only a player vote in midweek allowed the game to go ahead.

Ireland has long been a strong supporter of the Palestinian cause, and the players bowed their heads as the Israeli anthem was played before the match.

Republic of Ireland's Troy Parrott celebrates scoring their first goal against Israel. Ireland won the match 3-0. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

The teams skipped the traditional pre-match handshakes and did not exchange pennants either in a near-empty stadium in Debrecen.

Troy Parrott made a heart sign with his hands after opening the scoring in the 14th minute, while Jack Moylan kissed the Irish badge on his jersey and his black armband after netting the third goal 25 minutes in.

Ireland won the game 3-0, but Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar accused them of being “on the wrong side of history” over the players’ actions.