Bazunu withdraws from Ireland’s Israel fixtures

Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew from the squad for both scheduled Nations League fixtures against Israel, saying his personal belief that killing innocent people is wrong made it wrong for him to play. The Football Association of Ireland said a significant majority of the squad voted to fulfil the matches and that the association had decided they would proceed. Bazunu announced his decision in a social-media statement before the first fixture. He said his stance was not against Israeli people or the Jewish community, but reflected his personal beliefs. The FAI said the goalkeeper would be replaced in the squad. The reports do not establish whether he took part in the squad meeting or vote. The two matches were scheduled for September 27 in Debrecen, Hungary, and October 4 in Bačka Topola, Serbia. The reports do not confirm whether the first match was played or provide a result. The FAI’s announcement that the fixtures would go ahead described the team’s decision and the association’s position, not a completed match. The squad’s vote followed discussions among players and coaching staff over whether to play.