FIFA has ordered Ukraine to play its next World Cup qualifier in an empty stadium after its fans hurled racist abuse during its match against San Marino.
FIFA said in a statement yesterday that "several racist and discriminatory incidents were apparently perpetrated by local supporters during the match, in particular by displaying neo-Nazi banners and by making 'monkey noises and gestures' as well as Nazi salutes."
FIFA also said there "several incidents involving pyrotechnical devices" that violated safety regulations. Ukraine, which won the Sep 6 match 9-0, was also fined 45,000 Swiss francs.
The sanction means Ukraine will host Poland on Oct. 11 in an empty stadium for a game that could be crucial in deciding the top two spots in Group H, which also includes England.
