Israel-Scotland women’s soccer game delayed after protester ties himself to goal post

Protesters assembled outside Hampden Park in Glasgow on Friday ahead of Scotland’s Women’s Euro 2025 qualifier versus Israel, demonstrating against Israel’s war on Hamas in Gaza.

About 400 people, some carrying small coffins and Palestinian flags, gathered at the main stand entrance before kickoff, the BBC reported.

Signs included one reading “Israeli team not welcome in Glasgow.”

The game was delayed by around 45 minutes to detain a protester who was tied to a goalpost with a heavy-duty bike lock and wearing a black t-shirt that said “red card for Israel.”

When the game kicked off demonstrators booed and blew whistles, while fireworks were let off, the BBC said.

A handful of counter-protesters also demonstrated before the game.

A demonstration outside Hampden Park stadium, in Glasgow, Scotland, on May 31, 2024 prior to the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 League B Group 2 qualifying soccer game between Scotland and Israel. (ANDY BUCHANAN / AFP)

The Scottish FA said on May 21 that the game would be played without supporters due to concerns about potential planned disruptions.

The SFA said it had been left with “no option” but to stop supporters from attending “following extensive security consultations with all key parties,” the BBC reported.

A pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel demonstrator holds a placard as she demonstrates outside Hampden Park stadium, in Glasgow, Scotland, on May 31, 2024 prior to the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 League B Group 2 qualifying soccer game between Scotland and Israel. (ANDY BUCHANAN / AFP)

It was unclear how the protester who tied himself to the goal had entered the venue.

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