Ireland’s Nations League match against Austria at the Aviva Stadium is interrupted by Palestine-related protests. Multiple outlets report that the stoppages occur during the first half, with match play halted briefly after protest materials are thrown onto the pitch.
According to reports, several tennis balls wrapped in stickers featuring the Palestinian flag and the slogan “#StopTheGame” are launched onto the playing surface from near the corner close to Austria’s goal shortly before the 20th minute. One outlet also describes an additional interruption involving a pitch invader. The Belfast Telegraph and IrishExaminer.com refer generally to Palestine protests disrupting the game, while other coverage specifies the method of protest and timing.
The reports agree that the disruptions are staged by supporters expressing support for Palestine and using banners or stickers bearing the Palestinian flag. They also suggest the match officials and security respond to remove the items from the pitch, allowing play to resume after each disruption.
