The Romanian Vs Kosovo Match In The UEFA Nations League Due To Racism

Kosovo's players left the pitch before the game ended against Romania in the UEFA Nations League (Instagram/@kosovonationalfootball).

JAKARTA - The Romanian vs Kosovo match at the National Arena, Bucharest, on November 15, 2024, cannot be held completely.

The fifth match of Group 2 League C UEFA Nations League was forced to be completed more quickly following the racist actions of the Romanian host supporters.

Kosovo prefers to walk-out when they hear pro-Serbia chants from the home fans.

The decision was made after a fight broke out between players from both sides.

At that time, the position was still 0-0 entering the second half injury time. However, Kosovo's withdrawal from the field before the match was over made UEFA give Romania a 3-0 victory.

Romanians denied their supporters did racist songs. However, the denial did not make UEFA cancel the sentence for the Romanian Football Federation (FRF) of 128,000 euros.

UEFA imposed the fine on various charges related to xenophobic anti-Hungary singing, provocative political messages that were inappropriate for sporting events, and interfered with national anthems.

For information, the Romanian state did not recognize Kosovo's declaration of independence in 2008 from Serbia. This gave birth to sentiment brought to football.

FRF has also been ordered by UEFA to close its stadium for the next home game due to racist and discriminatory behavior by team supporters.

Meanwhile, the Kosovo Football Federation (FFK) will pay a fine of 6,000 euros for its team's walk-out behavior.

Despite the incident, Romania leads the Group 2 League C standings with 18 points from six matches and has the right to promote to League B.

Kosovo followed in second place with 12 points and will take part in the promotional playoffs to League B in March 2025.