Goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu informed teammates that he does not want to compete against Israel, sparking a series of emergency meetings at the national squad's hotel in Hungary. Reports indicate that at least five members of the Republic of Ireland's men's soccer team are refusing to take the field for Sunday's UEFA Nations League match in protest of Israel's actions in Gaza. The team has delayed training and its pre-match press conference while players debate whether to collectively boycott the fixture.

Midfielder Jason Knight stated the game should not go ahead, though captain Dara O'Shea said all views would be respected before a final decision is reached. The unrest follows an open letter signed by more than 160 Irish athletes urging the squad to boycott matches against Israel. UEFA eventually moved the team's press conference to their hotel, but no new time for the event has been confirmed.