Albania is facing an investigation by UEFA following disruptions caused by fans during their recent clash against Italy. The incidents included a fan entering the pitch in the late stages of the game and supporters in the Albanian section throwing projectiles onto the field.
The trouble began just 23 seconds into the match when Albania’s Nedim Bajrami scored, leading to a smoke bomb being set off in the stands. UEFA has also launched proceedings over the lighting of fireworks and the display of “a provocative message unfit for a sports event.” Specific details about the message have not been disclosed.
Despite the investigation, Albania’s participation in the tournament is not currently at risk. UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) will review the case. The Albanian Football Association plans to submit an official statement to the CEDB within the set deadline.
A spokesperson for the Albanian FA emphasized that all necessary measures were taken to ensure the successful organization of the match, which they described as a celebration of European football, asserting that no major incidents occurred to detract from the positive atmosphere.
Albania’s next match in the challenging “group of death” will be against Croatia in Hamburg on Wednesday, followed by a match against Spain in Dusseldorf next Monday. An estimated 50,000 Albanian fans traveled to Dortmund for the game, marking Albania’s participation in only their second European Championship, the first being in 2016.
Credit: Joe
