December 19 – Greek club Olympiakos Piraeus have appealed against the partial closure of their ground for their glamour Champions League last-16 tie with Manchester United, denying claims by UEFA that a section of their fans acted in a racist way in last week’s final group game.
European football’s governing body said the sanctions were imposed for “the racist conduct of supporters, insufficient organisation, the setting-off of fireworks and the use of a laser” in the fixture with Anderlecht on December 10.
But Olympiakos spokesman Kostas Karapapas responded on his Facebook account that the penalty was far too harsh.
“The punishment is because of one particular banner which as soon as it was seen was taken down and that is why it is harsh to say the least,” he said.
“There was no racist slogan or racist banner, and no racist chanting or songs were heard during the match with Anderlecht.”
“The punishment from UEFA is a first level decision and we have submitted an appeal to try to ensure that our stadium is full for the match against Manchester United,” added Karapapas.
Zenit St Petersburg were also sanctioned by UEFA for incidents during their 4-1 defeat at Austria Vienna but the club said they would not appeal against closing four sections of the ground for the visit of against Borussia Dortmund in February.
UEFA said Zenit had been punished for “the racist behaviour of fans – namely the displaying of a banner – the setting-off and throwing of fireworks and crowd disturbances.”
Last week, Zenit condemned violence, their Italian coach Luciano Spalletti describing the hooligans as “enemies” who should stay away.
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1734833534labto1734833534ofdlr1734833534owedi1734833534sni@w1734833534ahsra1734833534w.wer1734833534dna1734833534