Photo via BBC Sport

Neutral venues and no 'away' fans - how Israel v Republic of Ireland became so contentious

The upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures between Israel and the Republic of Ireland have drawn intense opposition and security concerns, leading to matches scheduled at neutral locations in Debrecen, Hungary, and Backa Topola, Serbia, with no away supporters permitted. Officials including FAI executives David Courrell and John Martin, alongside manager Heimer Hallgrimsson, have addressed the difficult circumstances surrounding the games, while prominent athletes such as boxer Tyrone McKenna and athlete Ciara Mageean joined more than 160 peers in signing an open letter advocating for a boycott.