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Ireland forced into unusual action vs Israel due to UEFA rule after squad split

The Republic of Ireland play Israel in the UEFA Nations League on Sunday evening

Published: Sunday, 27 September 2026 at 4:42 PM
Ireland forced into unusual action vs Israel due to UEFA rule after squad split
Key Things to Know
  • Republic of Ireland registered defender Jimmy Dunne as a goalkeeper for their Nations League match against Israel.
  • Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew from the squad in protest of the ongoing conflict in the region.
  • UEFA regulations require national teams to register three goalkeepers in every Nations League squad.
The Story in 60 Seconds

The Republic of Ireland has registered Queens Park Rangers defender Jimmy Dunne as a goalkeeper for Sunday's UEFA Nations League match against Israel. Manager Heimir Hallgrimsson made the selection after Bolton Wanderers goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew from the squad as a protest against the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Palestine.

UEFA regulations mandate that squads must include three registered goalkeepers for Nations League fixtures. Dunne, 28, will serve as backup alongside Caoimhin Kelleher and Max O'Leary, following extensive squad discussions and a vote regarding the fixture.

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