Serbia Urges Fans to ‘Cheer from the Heart’ Amidst Punishment Ahead of England Clash

As Serbia prepares to host England in a crucial World Cup qualifier on Tuesday, the Serbian FA (FSS) has issued a passionate plea to its supporters, urging them to display exemplary behavior and project a positive image to the world. This call for good conduct comes in the wake of a FIFA punishment that will see at least 15% of Belgrade's Rajko Mitic Stadium closed to home fans due to prior incidents of racist chanting during a match against Andorra.

The FSS has expressed deep concern over the financial penalties incurred due to fan misconduct, revealing that it has been fined over £600,000 by FIFA and UEFA in the past five years. These punishments stem from a range of offenses, including the use of prohibited items, the hurling of insults, and acts of discrimination within the stadium stands.

In a pre-match message published in the game's program, Branko Radujko, the general secretary of the FSS, issued a stern warning to Serbian fans. He emphasized that the team remains under the close scrutiny of UEFA, and any further transgressions could have severe consequences for Serbia's World Cup aspirations. Radujko highlighted the potential risk of having to play a decisive match against Albania behind closed doors, urging fans to cheer with passion but maintain fairness and dignity.

"We are still under special monitoring of Uefa," Radujko wrote. "Every inappropriate reaction, insult or incident could cost us dearly on our path to the USA, Mexico and Canada, including the possibility of having to play a decisive match with Albania behind closed doors."

England captain Harry Kane addressed the issue of potential racist abuse, stating that the team has discussed UEFA protocols and is prepared to take appropriate action if necessary. Kane referenced the team's experience in Bulgaria in 2019, where they successfully navigated a similar situation, emphasizing that the focus remains on the game itself.

UEFA's established three-point protocol outlines the steps referees should take in the event of racist behavior, which include halting the game for announcements, suspending play temporarily to remove players from the pitch, and ultimately abandoning the match if the abuse persists after a second restart.

Image source, Getty Images

The historical context reveals that many of Serbia's recent penalties are linked to issues surrounding Kosovo's declaration of independence, which Serbia does not recognize. This political tension often manifests in the form of nationalistic chants and derogatory remarks aimed at Albanians, Croats, and Bosnian Muslims during football matches.

In recent years, Serbian football has been marred by incidents of racism, including instances of abuse directed at England Under-21 players in 2007 and 2012. These events serve as a reminder of the challenges that still persist in combating discrimination within the sport.

Despite the existing challenges, the Serbian FA is determined to ensure that the upcoming match against England is a celebration of sport and mutual respect. Their statement emphasizes the importance of proper behavior, a positive stadium atmosphere, and showing respect for both the opponent and their national anthem. Radujko also expressed his hope that Belgrade would set an example on how passionate football can be played in a dignified manner.

England coach Thomas Tuchel shared this sentiment, expressing his belief in a high-level sporting occasion and emphasizing the beauty of the sport.

As the match approaches, all eyes will be on both the players and the fans, hoping for a display of football that embodies fair play, respect, and a shared love for the beautiful game.