Israel captain Manor Solomon criticised the Republic of Ireland after their Nations League match, saying Israelis and Irish people “hate” one another and claiming Israel was “10 times better” than Ireland. His comments sharpened tensions after Irish players and staff showed their opposition to Israel’s military actions in Gaza during the teams’ meeting.

Ireland won 3-0 in Debrecen, Hungary, on Sunday. Its players looked down during Israel’s national anthem and did not shake hands or exchange pennants with the Israeli team; staff also turned away from the pitch. The return match is scheduled for next Sunday in Serbia, also on neutral ground, and Solomon said he was looking forward to it.