Hallgrimsson urges UEFA to keep Ireland and Israel separate in future

Ireland manager Hallgrimsson called for UEFA to separate Ireland and Israel in future fixtures after a tense 1-1 Nations League draw marred by allegations of spitting.

Republic of Ireland drew 1-1 with Israel in a behind-closed-doors UEFA Nations League match in Serbia. The fixture was overshadowed by political tensions and an alleged spitting incident involving an Israeli player and Ireland fitness coach Damien Doyle at half-time. Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson confirmed the allegation but said he didn't witness it. When asked if the nations should play again, Hallgrimsson told RTE Sport that UEFA should consider keeping them apart, citing the significant support for Palestine in Ireland and the difficult circumstances surrounding the two-week international break.