Ireland goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdraws from ‘Israel’ match: Irish media

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu has withdrawn from Sunday’s UEFA Nations League fixture against ‘Israel’, citing moral objections, according to reports in Irish media.

Bazunu, the Bolton Wanderers goalkeeper who returned to the Ireland squad this international window after a lengthy injury absence, informed the camp of his stance during a players’ meeting on Friday night in Debrecen, Hungary.

Sources indicated he does not believe it is right to play the match.

Training was delayed as a result, and reports suggested other squad members were deliberating over whether to follow his lead.

The match, ‘Israel’s’ designated “home” fixture in Group B3, is scheduled for Sunday at the Nagyerdei Stadion in Debrecen.

Both of Ireland’s encounters with ‘Israel’ this window—Sunday’s game and the return fixture on 4 October in Bačka Topola, Serbia—were moved to neutral venues.

The FAI cited “operational challenges” that prevented hosting the October match at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, and it will be played behind closed doors.

The fixtures have been highly controversial since the Nations League draw placed Ireland with ‘Israel’, Austria and Kosovo.

The FAI had previously called for ‘Israel’s’ exclusion from UEFA competitions over the ongoing assault on Gaza but committed to fulfilling the games, warning that a boycott could lead to point forfeits, ranking damage, potential relegation and financial losses.

An FAI Extraordinary General Meeting in July endorsed proceeding with the matches.

Manager Heimir Hallgrímsson has acknowledged widespread discomfort.

“None of us feel comfortable playing these games,” he said after naming the squad, while later stating the team would be “playing against genocide” rather than with it—comments that drew a sharp response from the ‘Israel’ FA.

Captain Dara O’Shea and midfielder Jason Knight have also voiced unease; Knight said after the Kosovo defeat that he did not think the ‘Israel’ match “should be going ahead.”

Players had been discussing possible gestures of protest, such as declining pre-match handshakes or donating match fees.

Nathan Collins had earlier indicated the squad would support any individual who chose to stand aside: “If individuals want to take a stand, we will not hold them back.”

Campaign groups including Irish Sport for Palestine have urged a full boycott, with more than 160 athletes signing an open letter.

Public broadcaster RTÉ is providing stripped-back coverage without studio analysis or advertising.