Scotland vs Israel to be played behind closed doors

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Israel’s Euro 2025 qualifying match against Scotland at Hampden Park on May 31 will be played behind closed doors due to security concerns.

The Scottish FA stated that the decision was made after its “stadium operations team were alerted to the potential for planned disruptions” during the Group B2 game.

The return women’s international match, scheduled to be played in Hungary on June 4, will also take place without fans in attendance.

These decisions come amid public protests over Israel’s ongoing military operation in Gaza.

The SFA says it had “no option” but to play the Hampden match behind closed doors because of the updated intelligence and “following extensive security consultations with all key parties”.

“Measures are in place to provide an automatic and full refund to those supporters who have already purchased tickets for this match,” it added.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the decision, but the safety of supporters, players, team staff and officials is of paramount importance.”

Scotland are level on points with Serbia at the top of their group after one win and a draw, with Israel bottom after two defeats.