Albania has been dealt a blow by FIFA ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifier against Serbia on June 7.

Due to fan misconduct during the match against Andorra on March 24, FIFA has imposed a partial stadium ban and a fine on the Albanian Football Association (FSHF). As a result, 20% of seats at the Arena Kombëtare in Tirana will remain empty for the upcoming game against Serbia.

“The FIFA Disciplinary Committee deemed the behavior of fans unacceptable and issued a fine of 20 Swiss francs, along with an order to close at least 20% of the stadium for Albania’s next FIFA competition match. Priority will be given to closing the sections behind the goals,” the Albanian FA said in a statement released Tuesday.

Although those sections won’t host regular fans, FIFA allows for an alternative use.

“According to FIFA’s decision, the affected 20% may be filled with invited civil society groups or anti-discrimination organizations. Additionally, the FSHF must submit an improved anti-discrimination action plan within six months, subject to FIFA’s approval,” the statement added.

The Albania–Serbia match is expected to draw huge interest, but ticket availability will be even more limited now. The FSHF has yet to begin selling tickets.

In light of the situation, the Albanian FA has issued a call for respectful behavior:

“We urge fans to continue supporting the national team by creating a warm and positive atmosphere. Show civic values and respect toward the visiting team and avoid any actions that could harm the image or performance of the red-and-blacks,” the statement reads.

It remains unclear what specific fan actions were deemed discriminatory by FIFA, as neither the disciplinary ruling nor the FSHF statement provided further details.

Albania had beaten Andorra 3–0 in Tirana but lost 2–0 to England in Wembley on March 21.

The upcoming clash against Serbia could prove decisive in Albania’s quest to secure second place in their World Cup qualifying group.

Image:
BBB2021, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons