Republic of Ireland defeat Israel in Debrecen

What the report says

The Republic of Ireland secured their first win in Nations League Group B3 with a 3-0 victory over Israel in Debrecen, Hungary, responding strongly after a disappointing defeat in Kosovo. The BBC Sport report says the Irish took control in the first half and were comfortable for much of the match, while Israel struggled to create a breakthrough after the interval.

Troy Parrott opened the scoring in the 14th minute for his 12th international goal, finishing from James Abankwah’s cutback. Adam Idah doubled the lead shortly after, slotting home after being played through by Jack Moylan, and Moylan then added a third with his first competitive international goal. Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher made important saves when Israel tried to recover early in the second half.

The game also took place against a sensitive backdrop, with no handshakes before kickoff and the Republic of Ireland players lowering their heads during the Israeli anthem. According to BBC Sport, the result gives Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side a timely boost as they prepare to face Austria in Dublin next, while Israel remain in Debrecen to meet Kosovo. The win matters because it keeps Ireland’s group campaign alive and showed a more assured performance after their previous setback.