UEFA probes alleged spitting by Israeli player at Ireland coach

European football governing body UEFA announced on Tuesday it will open a disciplinary investigation into an incident involving an Israeli player. The probe follows accusations that the player spat on a member of Ireland’s coaching staff during their Nations League fixture in Serbia on Sunday.

The organization stated in an emailed message that an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to conduct the appropriate inquiry. This decision followed a review of official reports containing allegations of an incident occurring in or around the tunnel at half-time of the match.

Irish media reported that athletic coach Damien Doyle accused an Israeli player of spitting at him as teams left the pitch. The game was held behind closed doors at TSC Arena in Backa Topola after being moved from Ireland due to operational challenges cited by local football authorities.

Ireland head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson declined to give specific details about the alleged spitting at his post-match news conference. He noted that a disciplinary committee would examine the matter but admitted there were several incidents during the game that could have escalated if not managed carefully.

Hallgrimsson told Ireland’s public broadcaster RTE that he felt the intention from the Israeli side was to intimidate his players. He credited his squad for handling their emotions effectively. Israel coach Ran Ben-Shimon said he was in his room at half-time and did not witness the event.