UEFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Russia after Marseille violence
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Updated 12/06/2016 at 12:26 GMT
UEFA says it has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Football Union of Russia after violence broke out at Saturday's game against England in Marseille, bringing charges against Russia for crowd disturbances, setting off fireworks and tracis behaviour.
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Image credit: AFP
UEFA added that it had not taken any action against the English FA for the skirmishes that ensued.
Trouble was thought to have begun towards the end of the match when flares were let off by Russian fans at the Stade Velodrome. Subsequent footage appeared to show Russian fans charging England supporters after the 1-1 draw between England and Russia.
Despite having previously downplayed the violence, Russian sports minister Vitaly Mutko says UEFA's decision to open a disciplinary case is the right decision, accepting that Russia had "behaved incorrectly," but added that there were "many nuances" to what happened.
Earlier on Sunday, Mutko was quoted as having told Russia Today: "There was no clash...that's being exaggerated, in fact everything is fine here," adding that organisation - including segregation between English and Russian fans - had been insufficient.
In a strongly-worded statement UEFA expressed "utter disgust" and "serious concern" over the scenes that unfolded, but acknowledged concerns about security in the stadium saying it would implement "corrective measures" to address these.
Meanwhile, a spokesman for France's Interior Ministry was quick to defend police in the face of those security concerns and some criticism of their handling of the violence.
Speaking on behalf of the French Government Pierre-Henri Brandet said: "If there is a failure, it is that of soccer which is sick because some of its fans drink excessively and fight."
Violence between fans in Marseille started several days ago with bloody scenes in the Old Port area, meanwhile unrest was also said to have broken out in Nice between locals and Northern Ireland fans ahead of their side's opening match against Poland on Sunday.
A total of 15 arrests had been made by Sunday afternoon, authorities in Marseille said while 35 people had been injured in the clashes.
UEFA said a decision on sanctions would be made within the next few days, once Russia had submitted written statements.
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