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Ireland's pre-match press conference with Israel was cut short after racism accusations between journalists. FAI denied claims that Irish players called Israeli players monkeys.
An Ireland press conference ahead of the Uefa Nations League match against Israel in Backa Topola, Serbia, was cut short on Saturday after heated exchanges between Israel i journalists and the FAI media officer. The incident occurred at the TSC Arena during manager Heimir Hallgrímsson's pre-match session, which was mandated by Uefa. The game is scheduled for Sunday behind closed doors.
Racism Accusations Fly at Press Conference
The press conference, held ahead of Sunday's Uefa Nations League game between Ireland and Israel in Serbia, was disrupted when an Israeli reporter accused Ireland supporters of supporting an ideology based on murder, citing a recent attack on Israeli passengers. The FAI press officer asked to keep questions to football matters.
Another Israeli reporter then took the microphone and claimed that Irish players had called Israeli players monkeys during the match. The FAI media officer strongly denied this, saying it was completely untrue. The reporter continued shouting accusations as the press conference was brought to a premature end.
The FAI had earlier confirmed that their internal investigation into alleged racist abuse aimed at Adam Idah from Israel fans during last Sunday's game is ongoing. The Uefa delegate was absent from the press conference room, unlike last Saturday in Hungary.
Manager Calls for Focus on Football
Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson addressed the media before the disruption. He was asked about measures to protect his players amid the escalating tensions.
Hallgrímsson said that the situation goes both ways and that it is a game with a lot of emotions attached. He stated that he has not read anything and does not want to get involved, as it is a process for both the FAI and Uefa to look at. He expressed hope that football will be the winner and that the focus can remain on the game.
The Ireland boss also revealed that captain Dara O'Shea was not with the squad for training today. O'Shea returned to London to be with his partner, who had gone into labour.
Hallgrímsson said that O'Shea intends to return for the game but that family comes first. He added that the situation is being taken hour by hour and that a new life is the highest priority.
Ireland Israel Uefa Nations League Heimir Hallgrimsson FAI Racism Accusations Backa Topola
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