Ireland coach makes half-time ‘spit’ allegation against Israel player

Republic of Ireland fitness coach Damien Doyle was involved in an altercation where he was reportedly spat at during the half-time break of a Nations League match against Israel. The confrontation occurred as both teams moved toward the tunnel, prompting referee Juan Martínez Munuera, stadium security, and local police to intervene and separate the feuding camps.

The match, which finished in a 1-1 draw behind closed doors, followed heightened tensions during pre-match press conferences that led UEFA to bar two Israeli journalists from post-match briefings. Additionally, FAI officials are reviewing pitchside audio recordings following earlier allegations of racist abuse directed at Irish players Adam Idah and James Abankwah.