Albania suffered a 2-0 defeat against the Czech Republic on Friday night, but the match was overshadowed by severe incidents of racism and the desecration of Albanian national symbols.
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| Photo taken during the Czech Republic vs Albania match where the Albanian flags are seen upside down and the map of Kosovo with the Serbian flag |
The Albanian Football Federation (FSHF) publicly condemned these unacceptable actions, calling them a direct attack on the values of sportsmanship and mutual respect between nations. In response, FSHF has announced that it will seek immediate disciplinary action from UEFA, emphasizing that football should unite people and promote equality.
FSHF’s Official Response:
"The Albanian Football Federation strongly condemns the disgraceful acts that occurred during today’s match against the Czech Republic. Racist chants and the desecration of the Albanian flag are intolerable and have no place in football. This serious incident is an open attack on the values of football and respect between nations.
The FSHF condemns any form of racism and insult to national symbols and will submit a formal protest to UEFA, demanding immediate disciplinary measures. Our response was swift, as we urged the organizers during halftime to take immediate action to prevent the situation from escalating and disrupting the match.
Football is a game that unites and brings together people from all nations, promoting equality and respect for everyone, regardless of nationality or ethnic background. Albanians, as part of the global football family, will always defend these values and will not tolerate any form of racism or hatred, condemning anyone who tries to tarnish the beauty of this sport.
Despite today's match, our national team has consistently shown strength and courage in overcoming challenges, rising to the occasion when needed. Together with our fans, we will move past this game and prepare to face Georgia with a positive mindset."
Racist Chants and Flag Desecration:
The incidents escalated as Czech fans were seen in the stands waving Serbian flags, displaying banners with offensive messages such as "Kosovo is Serbia," and covering the Albanian flag with an ‘X’ symbol. These actions, along with clashes between supporters of both teams, have caused significant outrage in Albania and among its fans.
FSHF’s Appeal to UEFA:
In light of these events, the FSHF will push for disciplinary action, insisting that UEFA take swift measures against racist behavior and the desecration of national symbols. These actions undermine the core values of football, a sport meant to bring people together rather than divide them.
While the defeat was disappointing, the racist incidents have overshadowed the match, with the Albanian Football Federation and its fans urging UEFA to take a firm stand against such behavior.
Moving Forward:
The Albanian national team, known for its resilience, will continue to focus on future challenges. The team and its supporters aim to leave this incident behind as they prepare for their upcoming match against Georgia, determined to secure a positive result and continue representing Albania with pride.