Women’s Scotland v Israel Euro 2025 qualifiers to be played behind closed doors

Scotland Women’s upcoming Euro 2025 qualifiers against Israel will be played behind closed doors amid safety concerns over fears of “planned disruptions” at the Glasgow game.

The first football match is due to be played at Hampden Park on 31 May. It is scheduled to go ahead, but with no fans in attendance.

Due to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, the away fixture will be played in Hungary on 4 June. It too will be played behind closed doors.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Scottish Football Association (SFA) said the decision was made in response to “updated intelligence and following extensive security consultations with all key parties”.

A spokesperson added: “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.”

The SFA said measures are in place to provide automatic and full refunds to supporters who have already purchased tickets.

Read more from Sky News:
Amal Clooney among legal experts who recommended Netanyahu arrest warrant
Biden: ‘What is happening in Gaza is not genocide’

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

Police Scotland said it was aware of the upcoming match at Hampden Park.

A force spokesperson added: “Appropriate policing plans are in place to maintain public safety and minimise any disruption to the community.”