New Delhi: UEFA ruled in favour of Romania with a 3-0 win over Kosovo following the abandonment of their Nations League clash in Bucharest. The match was halted in the final moments when Kosovo players walked off the pitch, citing offensive and provocative chants from Romanian fans, including the phrase “Kosovo is Serbia.” Despite the game being scoreless at the time, Kosovo’s refusal to return to play led UEFA to make the decision.
Although Romania were awarded the victory, their football federation faced severe sanctions. UEFA fined them €128,000 for fan misconduct, including discriminatory behaviour, disruptions during the national anthem, and the display of political messages.
Additionally, Romania must play their next home match behind closed doors. The Kosovo Football Federation (FFK) was also penalised with a €6,000 fine for their team’s role in the game’s suspension.
UEFA decisions for Romania-Kosovo:
– Romania awarded a 3:0 forfeit win.
– €6,000 fine for FFK.
– €118,000 fine for Romania (xenophobic chants vs. Hungary, anthem disrespect, political messages, lasers, blocked stairs).
– Romania to play one match behind closed doors. pic.twitter.com/DmSXOkvh9K
— Kosovo Football 🇽🇰 (@FootballKosovo) November 20, 2024
The Romanian Football Federation (FRF) denied allegations of racist chanting, insisting that such incidents did not occur. However, UEFA’s investigation contradicted their claims, intensifying the strained relations between the two nations.
Controversy between the sides is not new, as a similar incident in September 2023 during a European qualifier led to both teams being fined for fan misconduct. Chants and banners with political messages have repeatedly overshadowed these encounters.
The tensions stem from Kosovo’s 2008 declaration of independence from Serbia, which Romania does not recognise. Political sensitivities often spill into football, with slogans like “Kosovo is Serbia” becoming flashpoints during matches. UEFA and FIFA have historically kept Kosovo and Serbia apart in competitions, yet matches involving Romania highlight similar underlying issues.
UEFA’s decision underscores the challenge of maintaining order while addressing fan behaviour. Both federations have the option to appeal through the Court of Arbitration for Sport, though no further comments have been made by either side.
UEFA handed Romania a 3-0 win after Kosovo players left the pitch protesting alleged discriminatory chanting by home fans. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
