The Euro 2025 qualifier between Scotland and Israel faced an unexpected delay when a protester infiltrated Hampden Park and chained themselves to a goalpost. The women’s match, which Scotland won 4-1, was already being played without spectators due to security concerns and potential disruptions. Despite the closed doors, hundreds of people had gathered outside the stadium ahead of the scheduled 7:05 PM kickoff.
Massive pro-Palestine protest outside Hampden Park, Glasgow while Scotland Women’ football team faces Israel for Euro 2025 qualifying games. Impose sanctions to Israel-Stop the genocide. pic.twitter.com/E2GXI5iI6c
— Andreas Piperides (@A_Piperides) May 31, 2024
Protesters outside were vocal, chanting “stop the game” and carrying small coffins, waving Palestinian flags, and displaying banners calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. While Police Scotland appeared to manage the situation, a protester managed to breach the security and force a delay by chaining themselves to a goalpost shortly before the match was set to begin.
Anti-Israel activists chant “From the river to the sea” as they protest outside Hampden Park stadium in Glasgow, Scotland.
Hundreds of protesters gathered demanding the Israeli women’s football team were kicked out of the Women’s Euro 2025 qualifier. pic.twitter.com/brMylh2ufz
— Oli London (@OliLondonTV) May 31, 2024
After about 15 minutes, the protester was removed, and the players returned for a second warm-up. Consequently, the match began approximately 30 minutes later than planned. Police had previously stated that they had implemented “appropriate policing plans,” which included the use of drones to ensure public safety and minimize disruptions. Despite a substantial police presence, including officers on horses, the protester managed to circumvent the security measures.
The Scottish Football Association had previously announced that, following extensive security consultations with all key parties, they had “no option” but to bar supporters from attending the match. Public demonstrations against Israel’s military actions in Gaza have been occurring across the UK in recent months.
France beat England in Ireland’s Euro 2025 qualifier group as protestor delays Israel-Scotland clash https://t.co/pnO23oQyF9
— The42.ie (@The42_ie) May 31, 2024
Uefa has prohibited Israel from hosting football matches following the Hamas attack on Israel in October and the subsequent Israeli government response. As a result, Israel’s national and club teams have been playing their fixtures at neutral venues in Hungary. The return qualifier between Scotland and Israel will be played in Budapest next week and will also take place behind closed doors.
In addition, FIFA is currently seeking legal advice on a motion submitted by the Palestinian football association to suspend Israel from the sport. The Israeli Football Association has criticized this move, calling it “cynical.”
Major points
- The Euro 2025 qualifier between Scotland and Israel was delayed after a protester chained themselves to a goalpost at Hampden Park.
- The women’s match, which Scotland won 4-1, was played behind closed doors due to security concerns and anticipated disruptions.
- Despite the closed doors, hundreds gathered outside the stadium, chanting for a Gaza ceasefire and carrying symbolic coffins and Palestinian flags.
- The protester was removed after 15 minutes, causing a 30-minute delay before the match could commence.
- UEFA has banned Israel from hosting matches following recent conflicts, leading to the next qualifier against Scotland being played in Budapest without spectators.
RM Tomi – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
