The Republic of Ireland's Nations League match against Austria was interrupted on Thursday when protesters threw tennis balls onto the field, demanding a boycott of Ireland's games against Israel. The match was halted by referee Allard Lindhout after 19 minutes of play, with Ireland leading 1-0. Troy Parrott scored the opening goal in the 12th minute, and the game resumed after a four-minute break. A man attempted to run onto the field carrying a Palestinian flag but was stopped by stewards.
Protesters gathered outside the stadium prior to the match, advocating against Israel's actions in Gaza. The 'Stop the Game' initiative displayed a Palestinian flag and banners supporting Ireland player Gavin Bazunu, who announced his decision to boycott the matches against Israel. The Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign organized protests across the country, calling for a boycott of the remaining Nations League match against Israel, which is scheduled to be played without fans in Backa Topola, Serbia, on Sunday.
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) moved the game to a neutral venue in June due to calls for a boycott and following a motion from the FAI in November urging UEFA to ban Israel from competitions. The 'Stop the Game' initiative had previously issued an open letter to the Irish squad and coach Heimir Hallgrimsson, requesting that they not participate in the upcoming match.
Ireland played Israel's home game in Debrecen, Hungary, last Sunday, winning 3-0 while wearing black armbands. Players deliberated for hours before deciding to play, with a reported vote of 14-8 in favor of participating, excluding Bazunu. The FAI has faced pressure to boycott the games, citing potential sanctions from UEFA, especially as Ireland is cohosting the 2028 European Championship with England, Wales, and Scotland.