Heimir Hallgrimsson believes his team will come out stronger from the tough times and Ireland vs Israel has become one of the most politically charged of the international window.
The two countries have come under much closer scrutiny since their entanglement in February, and Ireland is one of the loudest critics of Israel’s Gaza offensive in the European Union. There were protests in a number of places in Ireland and some fans and politicians called for the national team to boycott the games.
The controversy also played a part in the choice of the site for the first meeting. Instead of holding the match in Dublin, the Football Association of Ireland organised it to be played in secret in Backa Topola, Serbia, a town of just about 12,000 people.
Although the fixtures have been under strange conditions, Hallgrimsson has been working on keeping his players competitive. The Icelandic coach feels that the experience of having to go through the difficult international period can actually help his players.
Ireland will meet Israel again in Serbia on Sunday, adding to Hallgrimsson’s problems because of a number of changes in personnel.
Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, who again failed to make the squad due to not signing for the first match against Israel, will be unavailable. Without him, the Ireland goalkeeper rotation will be different as they gear up for their next big battle. The defender, Captain Dara O’Shea, will also be unavailable, as he has a child to look after.
Given the situation, the work of preparing for Ireland has proved very difficult, but Hallgrimsson has emphasized that the focus should be on what they can control.
The fixtures have gained wider resonance than football in line with the broader political polarisation on Israel’s Gaza war. Ireland’s approach has caused the country to be at the centre of controversy for its meetings with Israel, adding extra strain on players and coaches.
