Ireland press conference before Israel games delayed as pressure to boycott grows

DEBRECEN, Hungary (AP) — The Ireland team’s press conference the day before their first Nations League game against Israel has been delayed due to growing boycott pressure. Journalists in Debrecen, Hungary, where Israel’s “home” game is scheduled, were left waiting for 15 minutes after being informed the press conference would commence after training.

Irish broadcaster RTÉ reported the players were still in their hotel when training was set to start. The team faces mounting pressure in Ireland, a country with strong Palestinian affinity, to boycott the two matches - the first on Sunday and the second in Backa Topola, Serbia on October 4. Midfielder Jason Knight expressed difficulty and suggested the matches should not proceed after Ireland's 1-0 loss in Kosovo.

Ireland's coach, Heimir Hallgrimsson, previously stated that they are "playing against genocide" rather than "with" Israel, causing an angry response from the Israeli soccer federation. The FAI had previously resisted boycott calls, citing potential UEFA sanctions. Over 160 Irish sportspeople signed a letter urging the FAI to reconsider their decision to hold the fixtures.