Ireland beats Israel 3-0 for first Nations League win

The Republic of Ireland beat Israel 3-0 in Debrecen on Sunday, scoring all three goals in the first half to claim their first win of the Nations League campaign. Troy Parrott, Adam Idah and Jack Moylan scored for Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side, which held on after Israel pressed for a response following the break. Parrott opened the scoring in the 13th minute, finishing a cutback from James Abankwah. Three minutes later, Moylan played Idah through to double Ireland’s lead. Moylan made it 3-0 in the 25th minute, driving forward before placing a shot into the corner. The goals came during a 12-minute spell and put Ireland firmly in control. Israel had opportunities in the second half, but goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher made saves to deny attempts from Dor Peretz and Eliel Peretz. Ireland also threatened again, with Idah going close. The result followed Ireland’s 1-0 defeat to Kosovo in its campaign opener three days earlier. The match was played amid a tense buildup. Ireland’s players wore black armbands, bowed their heads during Israel’s national anthem and did not take part in customary handshakes or pennant exchanges.