Scotland v Israel to be played behind closed doors amid ‘disruption’ fears

Scotland Women’s upcoming Euro qualifiers against Israel will be played behind closed doors over fears of “disruption” at the games.

The sides meet at Hampden Park in Glasgow on Friday, May 31. But it will go ahead with no fans in attendance.

The away fixture is due to be played in Hungary, due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, and is also to be played without supporters in the stands.

A decision was reached following updated intelligence and “extensive security consultations” with all of the key parties involved.

Anyone who has bought a ticket to attend the game will be refunded the full price, the Scottish Football Association said.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the SFA said: “Due to updated intelligence and following extensive security consultations with all key parties, the Scottish FA regrets to confirm that the forthcoming UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 qualifier between Scotland and Israel at Hampden Park on May 31 will now be played behind closed doors.

“The away fixture, due to be played in Hungary on June 4, will also be played behind closed doors.

“The stadium operations team were alerted to the potential for planned disruptions to the match and as a consequence we have no option but to play the match without supporters in attendance.

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

“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 in a group with Israel, Serbia and Slovakia and they look to reach the European Championships that will be held in Switzerland next year.

Pedro Martinez Losa’s side drew 0-0 with Serbia and beat Slovakia 1-0 in their opening two games and currently sit second the group.

The top three teams in the group will qualify for the play-offs while the side at the top will be promoted to League A for the next Nations League campaign and the bottom side will be relegated to League C.