The minute’s silence preceding England’s Euro 2024 qualifying match against Italy at Wembley was prematurely ended due to disturbances caused by noisy fans. The Football Association (FA) had organized this tribute to honor the victims of both the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict and a recent terror attack in Brussels.
The FA faced criticism for not illuminating the Wembley arch in Israel’s colors before England’s match against Australia, following an attack by the Palestine-based terrorist group Hamas.
The conflict has heightened tensions between Jewish and Islamic communities globally, leading to concerns of potential unrest before the game.
The Metropolitan Police increased their presence at the stadium, especially after two Swedish nationals wearing football shirts were killed by an Islamic terrorist earlier in the week.
A minute’s silence was also observed before England’s 1-0 victory over Australia, paying respect to the victims of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
The conflict began when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, taking numerous women and children hostage.
In response, Israel initiated missile strikes and blocked food and water supplies to the Gaza Strip, where Hamas is based, insisting on the release of Israeli hostages.
In the match itself, England sought to avenge their loss to Italy in the Euro 2020 final, but it was Italy who took an early lead, with Gianluca Scamacca scoring after 15 minutes.
Harry Kane later equalized for England from the penalty spot, following a foul on Jude Bellingham by Giovanni Di Lorenzo.
England performance and stats
England
England is currently playing the Euro Qualification. It won its previous match 3-1 against Italy.
Italy performance and stats
Italy is currently playing the Euro Qualification. It lost its previous match 3-1 against England.
