Republic of Ireland midfielder Jason Knight has urged that the national team’s upcoming World Cup qualifier against Israel be called off, citing the ongoing war in Gaza.
The match is part of the Republic’s campaign to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and would see Ireland face Israel in a scheduled international fixture.
Knight said the conflict in Gaza makes it inappropriate to proceed with the game, calling for the fixture to be stopped until the situation improves.
The request comes amid broader calls from athletes and human‑rights groups for sporting events involving Israel to be reconsidered in light of the war, which has drawn international condemnation and prompted protests worldwide.
As of now, no official decision has been announced by UEFA or the Irish Football Association, and the fate of the qualifier remains pending further deliberation.
<small>Source: Punch Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>