Neutral venues and no 'away' fans - how Israel v Republic of Ireland became so contentiouspublished at 19:04 BST 27 September
Israel v Republic of Ireland (19:45 BST)
An elite-level European football match will be played today at a neutral stadium, with no 'away' fans, and reduced television coverage.
That the match is even taking place had been in doubt - one side had to vote on a motion confirming whether or not they would participate amid significant opposition from fans, pundits and politicians.
But the vote confirmed the fixture would go ahead, and now the Republic of Ireland will travel to Debrecen, Hungary, for a Uefa Nations League 'away' match against Israel, played against a backdrop of ongoing and increasingly volatile disagreement between the two countries about Israel's military offensive in Gaza.
And on 4 October, the Republic of Ireland will face the same opponents in a 'home' match in Backa Topola - a small town in Serbia.
No tickets have been sold to Irish fans for either fixture, and Irish public broadcaster RTE will air a stripped-back version of match coverage, with no commentators, pundits, or half-time analysis.
Read more on the situation here.
How Israel v Republic of Ireland became so contentious

