{
  "id": 9768611,
  "title": "Ireland midfielder wants Israel qualifier called off",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/25/ireland-midfielder-wants-israel-qualifier-called-off",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-25T13:12:41.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Punch Nigeria",
    "slug": "punch-nigeria",
    "url": "https://punchng.com/ireland-midfielder-wants-israel-qualifier-called-off/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Ireland midfielder Jason Knight has called for the World Cup qualifier against Israel to be canceled, citing concerns over the ongoing war in Gaza. The match, set for Sunday at 19:45 BST in Debrecen, Hungary, is part of a series of fixtures that have sparked controversy in Ireland. The \"Stop The Game\" campaign is urging the team to withdraw from the qualifiers, highlighting the tension surrounding the conflict. Knight, speaking after Ireland's recent defeat against Kosovo, expressed his opposition to the match, stating that while the team's management supports the game, he believes it should not go ahead. The players are set to discuss their stance on the matter further on Friday, considering the implications of their decision. Knight emphasized that he will continue to focus on his football responsibilities while expressing his views when necessary.",
  "summary": "Republic of Ireland midfielder Jason Knight has called for the team’s World Cup qualifier against Israel to be stopped amid the ongoing war in Gaza. Read More: https://punchng.com/ireland-midfielder-wants-israel-qualifier-called-off/",
  "key_points": [
    "Ireland midfielder Jason Knight opposes qualifier against Israel.",
    "Concerns over war in Gaza impact decision.",
    "Team to discuss stance on match on Friday."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Punch",
        "title": "Ireland midfielder wants Israel qualifier called off",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/25/ireland-midfielder-wants-israel-qualifier-called-off-9771497",
        "published": "2026-09-25T13:40:41.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}