Ireland vs Austria Halted as Pro-Palestinian Protest Disrupts Nations League მატჩ
Ireland’s Nations League match against Austria was halted in the 20th minute at the Aviva Stadium after tennis balls were thrown onto the field during a pro-Palestinian protest. Play resumed after security dealt with a supporter who entered the pitch carrying a Palestinian flag.
Match and fixture board
| Item | Detail | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Ireland v Austria | Paused in 20th minute | Tennis balls were thrown onto the pitch |
| Score at disruption update | Ireland 2-1 Austria | Troy Parrott scored twice; Alexander Prass replied |
| Next Israel fixture | Sunday in Serbia | Behind closed doors |
Some of the balls carried Palestinian-flag stickers and the message #StopTheGame. The interruption came after an already tense week surrounding Ireland’s Nations League meetings with Israel.
Ireland were ahead 2-1 against Austria in the second half. Parrott struck twice before the break, with one of his goals coming from the penalty spot. Prass then reduced the deficit for Austria.
The protests followed Ireland’s 3-0 win over Israel in Hungary on Sunday. Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu had withdrawn from the squad before that game, citing ethical reasons.
There was visible friction before and during the first meeting. Ireland captain Dara O’Shea did not shake hands with Israel winger Manor Solomon at the coin toss, while the Ireland starting side looked down during the Israeli anthem.
Solomon, who plays for West Ham, reacted angrily after the match. He said Ireland’s players had made unacceptable remarks during the game but added that he would avoid detailing them because he could face a suspension. He said the two sides did not like each other and looked ahead to their next meeting, while defending Israel and its people.
Ireland now face Israel again on Sunday, with the return Nations League fixture switched to Serbia and set to be played without spectators. Josh Keeley will take Bazunu’s place for that match.
