UEFA sanctions Serbia after England match incidents

It appears that the Serbia–Albania match will be played in front of a reduced number of spectators in Leskovac. According to the outlet Sport Klub, the capacity of the “Dubočica” stadium will be reduced by 20%.

According to the same report, the Football Federation of Serbia (FSS) has also been fined 80,000 Swiss francs.

At the same time, the punishment includes a requirement to present a clear plan to address potential issues in the upcoming match against Albania. The FSS must submit a seating plan by October 1st, which allows for filling part of the stadium with special interest groups: families, students, and anti-discrimination organizations, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

The plan must also include visible anti-discrimination activities, such as shirts or banners with relevant messages.

Practically, only 6,500 spectators will be allowed into the stadium on October 11.

In the previous match against England, organizational issues were observed. Czech delegate Emil Ubias recorded every detail, and as a result, there had been talk of a much harsher penalty, including the conditional suspension of Serbia from FIFA competitions.

The match had multiple problems in the stands: riots, inappropriate symbols, homophobic and offensive chants, whistling during England’s national anthem, and closed corridors — all recorded by delegates and security officials.

The Serbia vs. Albania match will be played at the Dubočica stadium in Leskovac on October 11, instead of Belgrade.