NEWS · 05 Oct 2026
Israel 'tried to intimidate' Irish amid spitting row – Hallgrimsson
Republic of Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson said his team felt Israel was trying to intimidate them after allegations of spitting during Sunday's Nations League draw. He stressed that the incident was a distraction from the match.
During the Nations League draw on Sunday, the Republic of Ireland team was involved in a controversy that has now reached the national team’s head coach. Reports emerged that an Israeli player had spat on an Irish player, sparking accusations of unsportsmanlike conduct.
Heimir Hallgrimsson, who has led the Irish side through the group stage, publicly stated that he felt Israel was attempting to intimidate his team. The coach used the incident to highlight the tension that can arise during high‑stakes fixtures.
Hallgrimsson added that the spitting allegations were a distraction from the match itself. He implied that the focus should remain on football rather than personal disputes.
The incident has come at a time when the Nations League is drawing attention for its competitive format and the stakes for qualification. Ireland’s performance in the group will be closely watched as the tournament progresses.
There has been no further official response from the Israeli side, and the governing body has yet to announce any disciplinary action. The situation remains unresolved, with both teams likely to focus on upcoming fixtures.