Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrímsson has called on UEFA to separate Ireland and Israel in future tournament draws following a series of tense incidents during their recent Nations League match in Belgrade.

The call for intervention comes after a physical and verbal altercation occurred in the stadium tunnel at half-time. According to members of the Irish delegation, the confrontation escalated when an Israel player allegedly spat at a member of the Republic of Ireland coaching staff. The incident sparked a brief scuffle between players and staff from both teams before security intervened to restore order.

Speaking after the match, Hallgrímsson expressed deep concern over the rising tensions between the two sides, suggesting that the fixture has become highly charged due to broader geopolitical contexts. The manager argued that UEFA should take proactive measures to prevent the teams from being drawn against each other in future international campaigns, similar to how the governing body currently separates certain other nations due to political sensitivities.

"It is clear that these matches are carrying an extra layer of tension that goes beyond what we want to see on a football pitch," Hallgrímsson said. "For the safety of the players, staff, and to maintain the integrity of the sport, it would be sensible for UEFA to consider keeping the teams apart in future qualification and tournament draws."

The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) is understood to be compiling a formal report on the tunnel incident to submit to UEFA delegates. The Israeli Football Association has not yet released an official statement regarding the spitting allegation or the half-time altercation.

UEFA has launched an investigation into the events in Belgrade, with match observers and security personnel expected to submit their reports in the coming days. Disciplinary action could follow for both associations depending on the findings of the governing body's inquiry.