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LONDON. — England have been ordered to play one match behind closed doors as a punishment for the unrest at Wembley Stadium during the Euro 2020 final.
Uefa also imposed a ban for a second game, which is suspended for two years.
The Football Association was fined 100 000 euros (£84 560) for “the lack of order and discipline inside and around the stadium” for the game.
“Although we are disappointed with the verdict, we acknowledge the outcome of this Uefa decision,” said the FA.
The ban is the first time the FA have received a punishment that has resulted in England having to play a home match behind closed doors.
Fans fought with stewards and police as they attempted to break into Wembley for the match on July 11, which England lost to Italy on penalties.
Hundreds of fans got into Wembley for the showpiece without tickets after areas around the stadium became packed hours before the evening kick-off.
Many sat in the area reserved for players’ relatives, while England defender Harry Maguire later said that his father Alan suffered two suspected broken ribs before the game.
Manchester United central defender Maguire said his father was caught up in the stampede and was “struggling to breathe” after being trampled on.
The Metropolitan Police had said that 51 arrests were made connected to the final, with 26 of those made at Wembley.
“We condemn the terrible behaviour of the individuals who caused the disgraceful scenes in and around Wembley Stadium at the Euro 2020 final, and we deeply regret that some of them were able to enter the stadium,” added the FA.
“We are determined that this can never be repeated, so we have commissioned an independent review, led by Baroness Casey, to report on the circumstances involved.” — BBC Sport.
Online Reporter