Uefa open disciplinary proceedings against Romania and Kosovo after abandoned game

Romania and Kosovo face disciplinary action after Uefa opened proceedings against both sides following the abandonment of their Nations League match in Bucharest on Friday.

The game was stopped after Kosovo players left the pitch with just seconds remaining, claiming the home fans were shouting “Serbia”. The contest had been goalless.

After initially being suspended, the match was abandoned an hour later after the Kosovo players did not return.

The Kosovan Football Federation (FFK) accused Romania fans of “irresponsible and discriminatory behaviour” and cited a “lack of safety and dignity” as the reason behind the players leaving the pitch.

The Romanian Football Federation (FRF) claimed there were “no racist chants during the match” and called Kosovo’s decision to walk off “regrettable” and “premediated”.

The president of the Football Federation of Kosovo, Agim Ademi, has promised that he will fight for justice all the way to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

He stated that football should promote fair play and unity, not serve as a platform for provocations and discrimination. pic.twitter.com/X2WioPLI99

— Kosovo Football 🇽🇰 (@FootballKosovo) November 16, 2024

In a statement, Uefa said “disciplinary proceedings have been instigated” against both federations.

The governing body added: “Further information about these proceedings will be made available in due course.”

Romania manager Mircea Lucescu shouting “Disgraceful” towards Kosovo’s staff and players after the circus scenes in Bucharest last night. pic.twitter.com/KJh3tld8R2

— Emanuel Roşu (@Emishor) November 16, 2024

Last year, the FRF was fined by Uefa for pro-Serbia chanting and the display of a banner reading “Kosovo is Serbia” by supporters during a Euro 2024 qualifier between Romania and Kosovo.

Kosovo were also fined following interruptions in September’s Nations League match between the two sides, when flares were thrown and fans entered the pitch and whistled during the Romanian national anthem.

Kosovo are currently three points behind Romania in the group after four matches.

In February 2008, Kosovo declared independence from Serbia after years of strained relations between the country’s Serb and Albanian inhabitants.

Kosovo’s independence is recognised by 100 countries but not by Romania and Serbia.

Serbia and Kosovo are always kept apart in Uefa and Fifa competitions.