UEFA charges Croatia over Balotelli incidents

UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Croatia after the alleged racist conduct of their fans against Italy on Thursday.

The European governing has acted promptly following accusations that Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli was subjected to monkey chants in the Group C game which ended in a 1-1 draw in Poznan.

It has not yet been made clear whether the charge also relates to claims a banana was hurled in the direction of Balotelli, who before the tournament claimed he would leave the field were he to be the subject of racism and would ‘kill'” the perpetrators.

UEFA said in a statement: “UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Croatian Football Federation (HNS) for the setting-off and throwing of fireworks, and the improper conduct of supporters (racist chants, racist symbols) at the UEFA Euro 2012 Group C match against Italy in Poznan on Thursday. The UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body will deal with the case on 19 June.”