UEFA defended its policy for deciding whether national teams are separated in competition draws after Ireland’s association said its request to avoid pairing with Israel was rejected. The Football Association of Ireland had asked about changing future draws after the countries were matched in February’s Nations League draw. UEFA said each request is considered individually, based on several factors and especially structural security risks between the countries. Republic of Ireland and Israel are scheduled to meet on September 27 and October 4.
Source: https://today.reuters.com/sports/soccer/uefa-defends-draw-policy-after-ireland-request-israel-dismisses-fai-comments-2026-09-19