Republic of Ireland travel to a neutral venue in Debrecen to face Israel on 4 October 2026 at 21:45 in UEFA Nations League B, Group 3. Both teams lost their opening fixtures and cannot afford another defeat. Israel fell 3-1 to Austria despite scoring through Saied Abu Farchi, who was sent off for a second yellow immediately after his goal. Ireland lost 1-0 to Kosovo in Pristina but created dangerous chances, particularly after the break. The pressure on both sides to attack and chase points makes a cagey, defensive display unlikely.
Form and H2H
Ireland's last ten matches show five wins, four draws and one loss, averaging 1.82 goals for and 0.72 against. Israel have won two of their last ten, drawn three and lost five, with an average of 1.07 goals for and 1.98 against. The teams met on 27 September 2026, when Ireland won 3-0 at the same venue. In their two competitive head-to-head meetings in 2005 World Cup qualifying, both matches ended with both teams scoring: 1-1 and 2-2.
Best bet
Both teams to score — Yes. Israel possess attacking quality through Oscar Gloukh, Manor Solomon and their wide options, but showed defensive fragility against Austria. Abu Farchi's suspension forces a reshuffle in attack, yet Ben Shimon has several replacements including Liel Abada and Tai Baribo. Ireland improved significantly after half-time against Kosovo and should find more space against an Israel side that plays proactively. Chiedozie Ogbene's pace, Troy Parrott's movement and Ireland's set-piece threat provide multiple routes to goal. With both defences unconvincing in round one and both teams needing a response, each side scoring offers the most likely outcome.
Odds to watch
Republic of Ireland are favoured at 1xBet 2.82, with the draw at 3.24 and Israel at 2.72. Mostbet prices the home win at 2.77, the draw at 3.18 and the away win at 2.63. Melbet offers 2.76 for Ireland, 3.16 for the draw and 2.66 for Israel.


















