The Republic of Ireland responded to Thursday’s defeat in Kosovo with a 3–0 victory over Israel on Sunday evening. Playing in Debrecen, Hungary, Heimir Hallgrímsson’s side took control early and had established their winning margin within 25 minutes.
Parrott opened the scoring in the 14th minute, turning in James Abankwah’s cutback for his 12th international goal. Ireland struck again just two minutes later. Moylan sent Idah through, and the striker finished past goalkeeper Daniel Peretz into the corner.
Moylan then added a goal of his own in the 25th minute, driving into the penalty area and firing home to make it 3–0. His contribution capped a commanding opening spell from an Ireland side that had needed a response after their Nations League opener.
Israel tested Caoimhín Kelleher through Anan Khalaili before half-time and pressed harder after the break. Kelleher saved from Dor Peretz and Eliel Peretz to preserve the clean sheet, while Idah nearly scored a second at the other end, only for Daniel Peretz to turn his effort behind.
A Fixture With Significance Beyond the Result
The match took place amid protests and debate over whether Ireland should play Israel during the conflict in Gaza. There were no pre-match handshakes, and the Irish players bowed their heads during Israel’s national anthem. The Football Association of Ireland had previously asked UEFA to suspend Israel from its competitions; UEFA did not do so.
On the pitch, Ireland’s sharp start made the difference. Three well-taken goals gave them a lead they defended with relatively little trouble, despite Israel’s improved spell early in the second half.
Ireland’s next Group B3 fixture is at home to Austria on Thursday, 1 October. They then face Israel again on Sunday, 4 October, with that fixture scheduled for a neutral venue in Serbia.
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Also on LoveBelfast: Republic of Ireland Beat Israel 3–0 in Hungary as First-Half Goals Secure Nations League Win
