Norwegian Football Federation President Lise Klaveness said she will meet with her Israeli counterpart ahead of Saturday’s World Cup qualifying match in Oslo, following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. According to Reuters, Klaveness sees such a meeting as especially important in strained times.
This comes after tensions erupted earlier in August, when the Norwegian FA announced it would donate proceeds from ticket sales for the Norway–Israel match to Doctors Without Borders for Gaza — a decision that drew sharp criticism from the Israel FA.
Klaveness said “I always meet other football presidents before we play games. I’m very much into dialogue and the more difficult it gets, the more important (it) is that we meet, even if it’s difficult.”
The Israel FA had criticized Norway’s donation plan, saying in part that “It would be nice if some of the amount were directed to try to finding a condemnation by the Norwegian FA of the October 7 massacre that claimed the lives of hundreds of Israeli citizens and children.”
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Since the ceasefire is now ratified, Klaveness welcomed the initiative. “We are, of course, extremely happy. that there is a ceasefire,” she said, and added: “Football is nothing compared to peace, and now the bombs can stop over Gaza, and that hostages can come home.”
She urged sporting leaders to “give this peace plan energy and momentum,” acknowledging that lasting peace is still a long way off but that everyone’s backing is required.
On fan safety and attendance, Klaveness said that the Norwegian FA has been discussing with Oslo police and hopes that Israeli fans should be able to feel safe. She emphasized that no remark must be construed as a lack of compassion for Israeli civilians who have been victimized on October 7. “When we say something about condemning the attack on Gaza, it does not imply that we condemn the attack on their people any less,” she said.
In the background, Klaveness has already called for Israel’s suspension from international football ahead of a potential UEFA vote.
Norway leads Group I with 15 points. Israel is third, level on points with Italy but behind on goal difference. A Norway victory would enhance their chances of direct qualification, while Israel is fighting for a playoff berth.
