Ireland's Ogbene: 'Don't put pressure on us' over Israel match boycott calls

Republic of Ireland winger Chiedozie Ogbene has appealed to the public not to place pressure on the national team over decisions surrounding a possible boycott of upcoming Nations League fixtures against Israel.

The two sides are scheduled to meet on Sunday in Debrecen, Hungary, followed by a return match on 4 October in Backa Topola, Serbia. Since the teams were drawn together in Group B3, pressure has been building within Ireland to withdraw from the fixtures because of the ongoing situation in Gaza, with a campaign called 'Stop The Game' gaining momentum.

Ahead of Thursday's 1-0 defeat to Kosovo in Pristina, stand-in captain Dara O'Shea confirmed that the squad would hold discussions on Friday about their approach to Sunday's match, which is officially considered a home fixture for Israel. No Irish supporters will be present at that game, nor at the following week's return fixture, which will be played behind closed doors.

Ogbene calls for understanding

Speaking to RTE Sport after Thursday's loss, Ogbene said he was aware of public sentiment on the issue but described the situation as complicated and difficult. He expressed hope that people would not expect footballers to provide answers to such difficult questions.

Ogbene stressed that decisions of this nature should be made by those with the authority to do so, rather than relying on players. He added, however, that the squad would discuss the matter together as a group and decide on their next steps.