The European Football Association (UEFA) confirmed today, Saturday, that decisions to separate teams in the draw for its tournaments are taken individually for each case, and are based primarily on security considerations and the circumstances prevailing between the two countries concerned.
This clarification comes in response to statements made by David Correll, CEO of the Irish Football Association, yesterday, Friday, in which he revealed that his country’s association had submitted an official request to UEFA to separate the Republic of Ireland from Israel in future draws, following their falling into one group during the European Nations League draw that took place last February.
UEFA explained in its statement that it deals with requests to prevent two teams from falling into one group with great care, and studies each case individually according to its specific content, with careful follow-up of all facts and developments related to it. He added that decisions to avoid placing certain teams in one group take into account several factors, most notably the inherent security risks resulting from relations between the two countries.
It is noteworthy that the two upcoming matches between the Irish and Israeli national teams, scheduled to be held on September 27 and next October 4 as part of the championship competitions, are receiving widespread attention and sparking controversy in Ireland against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
