India, Sept. 28 -- The Republic of Ireland secured a 3-0 victory over Israel in their first of two UEFA Nations League meetings, with the fixture attracting significant attention beyond the result. Calls for a boycott had surrounded the match, with the game eventually taking place in Hungary amid the wider controversy linked to Israel's war in Gaza.

Ireland's players wore black armbands during the match in what was reported as a gesture of support for Palestinians killed in the conflict. The team also stood with heads bowed during Israel's national anthem and did not participate in the customary handshake with their opponents. Ireland captain Dara O'Shea further drew attention to the fixture by pledging to donate his earnings from the ma...