Albania forward Mirlind Daku has been reprimanded by UEFA for inciting the supporters to sing nationalistic slogans after their game against Croatia. The event also saw Daku, use a megaphone to sing anti-North Macedonia and anti – Serbia songs. Moreover, this action is contrary to the general principles of conduct which brings the football game into disrepute.
Therefore, he’ll stay suspended for two more UEFA representative team competition matches. Meanwhile, he will not feature against Spain as well as the round of 16 in case Albania progresses there.
Mirlind Daku Actions and Implications
Mirlind Daku, after his nationalistic chant has offered an apology for his behavior. However, he started playing for the Albanian senior team only last year after changing his allegiance from Kosovo to Albania. Additionally, the Albanian Football Association has also been penalized €47,500 for numerous violations in the match including the use of Fireworks, pitch invasion, and sending inciteful messages. Similarly, Croatia was fined €28,000 for lighting and throwing of fireworks during the match.
Fines given to Daku and subsequent fines have further triggered an uproar. Leading to the Serbians, threatening to pull out of the tournament if UEFA fails to address the issue. Fans from both teams sang chants against Serbia and Montenegro, they annoyed the Serbian Football Association who demanded to stop the match.
In another event, a Kosovar journalist had his press pass withdrawn by UEFA. This is following the alleged misdeeds during the Serbia versus England match contributing to the heightened tensions of the cup.
Mirlind Daku Ban a Cautionary Reminder
The UEFA ban is a good cautionary reminder to players and officials that football should indeed be associated with proper sportsmanship and play. It also implies that fans, players, and officials should avoid all forms of conduct that bring disrespect to the noble spirit associated with sports. In this case, Daku will not be available for the next important matches. However, such actions have consequences that will affect everyone and the tournament in general.
Since all three countries – Albania, Croatia, and Serbia are still competing, actions taken by UEFA – have put the light on what many consider nationalism and especially unsportsmanlike conduct. In this last set of matches in the group stages, these teams are on a knife edge as they hold only a single point out of the two games that they played initially. In the second match of the group Albania will play Spain, in the third match Croatia is against Italy, and in the last match of the group Serbia will face Denmark.
Mirlind Daku Ban a Decisive Approach by UEFA
Hence, despite many disagreements, all stakeholders must be careful and ensure that football receives the appropriate image. Hence, it becomes rather important for UEFA to act decisively and not allow any aggressive behavior from players or fans of any associated games. The next fixtures will be the chance for teams and fans to show their sportsmanship. However, supporters should all act appropriately and agree with the true intention of football. Football is meant to unite and promote love amongst all participants. Every hand should be on deck in its course to Foster unity rather than division.
About the Author
Edmund Jaja is a sports enthusiast, Content Writer, Editor, and Storyteller from Nigeria. He has been a die-hard Cristiano Ronaldo, Real Madrid, and Manchester United fan since the Fergie era. With a background and experience in Psychology, he has the zeal, passion, and creativity to inspire through writing.
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