Irish fans throw tennis balls bearing the Palestinian flag onto the pitch during the match against Austria

Protesters who were against Ireland’s Nations League match against Israel interrupted Ireland’s last match against Austria. They threw tennis balls stamped with the Palestinian flag onto the pitch. Referee Allard Lindhout gave the players a hydration break as soon as the balls were thrown onto the pitch. It was the 19th minute and Ireland were leading 1-0.

Earlier, a man had tried to enter the pitch, but was stopped by the stewards. The Irish broadcaster RTÉ said the person in question was carrying a flag of Palestine.

A small group of activists from the ‘Stop the Game’ initiative positioned themselves near the stadium and unfurled a Palestinian flag and banners in support of the Irish footballer Gavin Bazunu. Bazunu decided to boycott both of his national team’s matches against Israel.