From the Guardian · · 1m
Ireland players vote to play Israel match after boycott debate
Ireland squad votes to play Israel despite boycott pressure after player-led protest
In brief
Ireland squad votes to play Israel despite boycott pressure after player-led protest Most Irish players will play Israel match with black armbands but one player withdrew in protest Originally reported by the Guardian.
Player withdrawal
Gavin Bazunu withdrew from Republic of Ireland squad to play Israel after stating he would not participate as a person of principle
“Representing my country means everything to me. I have the utmost respect for every single one of my teammates, the manager, his staff, and the Irish people.”
Squad vote decision
Republic of Ireland players voted to play Israel match after lengthy discussions with significant majority supporting participation
Black armbands
Players will wear black armbands in match to honor lives lost in Gaza conflict
Coach apology
Head coach Heimir Hallgrímsson regretted using strong language about playing against genocide
Israel response
Israel team congratulated Ireland for decision to play while agreeing to pre-match formalities
Yellow card dispute
Israel FA appealed yellow cards given to player after corner flag incident
Player stance
Bazunu stated his decision was based on personal belief that killing innocent people is wrong
“My decision is based purely on my personal belief that the killing of innocent people is wrong.”
The headline
Most Irish players will play Israel match with black armbands but one player withdrew in protest
