Israel were “trying to intimidate” Republic of Ireland right from the start of their ill-tempered and contentious 1-1 Nations League draw claimed Irish head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson, with accusations of spitting also being levied.
The match was nominally a home fixture for Ireland was held on neutral territory at the 4,500-seat TSC arena in Backa Topola, Serbia, due to “operational challenges” amid an ugly atmosphere between the two sides due to tensions over the Israel-Gaza war.