Three first-half goals gave the Republic of Ireland the first victory of their Nations League Group B3 campaign against Israel in Hungary.
Three days after a disappointing defeat in Kosovo, the Irish had a much better performance in Debrecen thanks to first-half goals from Troy Parrott, Adam Idah and Jack Moylan.
Israel attempted a comeback early in the second half but failed to get past Caoimhin Kelleher, with the Irish largely in control to head home.
As expected, there was no handshake before the match, with the Republic of Ireland players bowing their heads during the Israeli anthem.
Despite a difficult preparation, Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side started with confidence and were rewarded in the 14th minute when Parrott scored his 12th international goal by pushing away James Abankwah’s pullback.
The lead was doubled two minutes later and this time it was Idah who was put into play by Moylan before heading past Daniel Peretz into the corner of the net.
Kelleher was called into action to thwart Anan Khalaili, but the Irish went three goals ahead in the 25th minute when Moylan entered the box and scored his first competitive international goal.
Israel pushed for a comeback early in the second period, but Kelleher denied Dor Peretz and then Eliel Peretz.
Idah almost grabbed his second but Daniel Peretz diverted his effort around the post.
The Republic of Ireland now turn their attention to Austria in Dublin on Thursday, while Israel will return to Debrecen to face Kosovo.
Gn headline
