ALBANIA’S megaphone man Mirlind Daku will miss tonight’s final group tie with Spain after being hit with a two-match Uefa ban for inciting supporters.
Daku, 26, who plays for Russian side Rubin Kazan, picked up the loudspeaker at the end of Albania’s 2-2 draw with Croatia.
He then encouraged Albanian fans to chant nationalist songs that denigrated Serbia.
The Serbian FA were so angry that they threatened to QUIT the tournament if Uefa did not take action, prompting a full enquiry.
And now Uefa chiefs have confirmed their punishment among a series of sanctions arising from the game in Hamburg.
Daku was hit by FOUR charges – breaking the general principles of conduct, violating basic rules of decent conduct, using a sporting event for non-sporting reasons and bringing the game into disrepute.
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The player apologised after the game, saying he was “sorry if I offended anyone” and adding: “The effect of the game did such things to me.
“Like any footballer, the emotions in these moments are on another level, which can only be understood on the pitch.
“It is difficult to describe the feeling of playing for this national team, for these wonderful fans who give us unconditional love.”
But Uefa have now come down hard, announcing the two-game ban which means Daku cannot play until the last eight if Albania go that far.
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If they miss out, he will be ruled out for their opening Nations League game in September.
Albania were also fined a total of £40,000 for fans lighting fireworks, a pitch invasion and banners carrying a “provocative message”.
Croatia were fined just under £24,000 for their fans lighting and throwing fireworks.
But further fines could follow as Uefa added: “Please be aware that the investigation/proceedings in relation to potential racist and/or discriminatory conducts by supporters in this match is ongoing.”
Who is Euro 2024’s sexiest star?
EURO 2024 has something for everyone from stunning goals, thrilling matches… and the continent’s biggest hunks, writes Jack Figg.
Several stars have lit up the group stages with their skills on the pitch – but others are also catching the eye for their looks.
But who is the sexiest?
Thankfully AI boffins have carried out an analysis on the facial attractiveness of all players at the tournament.
And it’s bad news for Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions who are the fourth UGLIEST in the competition – one place below Scotland.
In fact it’s England’s group rivals Serbia who have fans swooning the most – boasting an average score of 77.90/100 with defender Strahinja Pavlovic deemed their most attractive.
While Turkey defender Mert Muldur has been ranked as the tournament’s BEST-LOOKING player.
But who is England’s sexiest star, and who makes the Euros’ hunkiest XI? Read our full story.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
