Celtic ace sparks fracas after tackle on ex-Parkhead teammate in hostile clash as manager hails ‘born leaders’

Celtic centre-back held to frustrating draw after difficult week.

Scotsman

Published: Monday, 5 October 2026 at 8:15 AM

$Celtic ace sparks fracas after tackle on ex-Parkhead teammate in hostile clash as manager hails ‘born leaders’$

Key Things to Know

Liam Scales sparked a confrontation after a tackle on ex-Celtic teammate Liel Abada during Ireland's clash with Israel.
The Republic of Ireland and Israel played out a 1-1 draw behind closed doors in Serbia.
Troy Parrott scored Ireland's opening penalty before Dor Peretz equalized for Israel early in the second half.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Celtic defender Liam Scales triggered a touchline confrontation after receiving a yellow card for tackling former Parkhead teammate Liel Abada just before half-time in the Republic of Ireland's 1-1 Nations League draw with Israel. Troy Parrott had opened the scoring for Ireland with a 39th-minute penalty before Dor Peretz equalized for Israel in the 47th minute at the TSC Arena in Serbia.

Reports indicated that an Israeli player spat at an Irish backroom staff member during the ensuing melee. Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson expressed relief that the turbulent international window concluded, praising his squad's unity and resilience under intense political pressure and describing the challenging period as a defining moment where leaders were born.

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