DUBLIN (IRELAND) (ITALPRESS) – Ireland will play their second match against Israel this Sunday at a neutral venue in Bačka Topola, Serbia. Head coach Heimir Hallgrímsson clarified the situation following the uncertainty surrounding the match in Debrecen—which the team ultimately played after a vote among the players. On the eve of the game against Austria, the coach sought to dispel any doubts. “Our federation told us we would play both matches. That was our intention when we arrived at the training camp, and it remains so,” Hallgrímsson stated. “We are trying to focus on football, and it has already been decided that we will play the second match as well.”
Last Sunday, the Irish players took the field wearing black armbands, bowed their heads during the Israeli national anthem, and did not shake hands with their opponents. Hallgrímsson was brief when asked about potential protests in Serbia: “I have to focus on football. I’ll leave it to others to worry about security and those kinds of issues.” Gavin Bazunu, who had refused to play against Israel and has already opted out of Sunday’s match, will be available again for the game against Austria. “Gavin is a fantastic guy. I’ve always had a good relationship with him, and the situation is likely harder for him than for the other players, but his teammates have welcomed him really well. Life goes on. He is part of this group, and I think this shows just how strong the bond between these players is—so strong that not even something like this can divide us.”
– photo IPA Agency –
(ITALPRESS).
