LEFOUR says Ireland's goalkeeper Bazunu boycotts games against Israel
On the training ground of Standard Liège, the 24-year-old Irish national goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu stands in his kit while composing an Instagram post on his phone. He writes: "I am a deeply religious man and strive with all my might to be a person of character and principles" and announces that he will boycott the upcoming Nations League matches against Israel. The move immediately sparks debates about politics and sport.
Political Motivation
After the Instagram post, Bazunu explains that his decision stems solely from his personal conviction that killing innocent people is wrong. He emphasizes that he is not targeting the Israeli people or the Jewish community, but the atrocities in the Gaza Strip. The Irish football association already voted on the whole situation in July.
Consequences for the Nations League
Ireland's national team, after intense internal discussions, decided to go ahead with the two fixtures against Israel. In the vote, 75 members voted for playing, 32 against. Not playing would have meant possible UEFA sanctions and the loss of millions of euros in revenue.
Gavin Bazunu justifies his withdrawal from the match against Israel
The first leg takes place today at 20:45 in Debrecen, Hungary, and the return leg is scheduled for October 4 in Serbia. Bazunu, who has so far earned 22 caps, was on the bench for Ireland's Nations League debut against Kosovo (0-1), while Caoimhin Kelleher was in goal.
The keeper, who currently plays for English Championship side Bolton Wanderers, wears the Standard Liège shirt because he was loaned there in the summer. In his Instagram message he stresses that there are few opportunities in life to stand up for something bigger, and that he is seizing this chance.
Virginie LEFOUR reports that the Irish public is watching the move critically, especially since Dublin officially recognized the State of Palestine in 2024. The debate over Israel's role in the Gaza conflict remains a central issue in Irish football.