Albania denounces 'extremist acts' of its fans in Italy
Posted March 25, 2017 7:00 am
TIRANA, Albania (AP) - Albania's soccer federation has strongly denounced the incident that halted the World Cup Group G qualifier with Italy for nearly nine minutes on Saturday.
During the match, which was won by Italy 2-0, a group calling itself Illyrian Elite threw flares onto the pitch.
"Such totally extremist actions from the grouping Illyrian Elite have nothing to do with the excellent Albanian fans" who were distinguished in the Euro 2016 finals in France for their friendship and camaraderie in their festivities, the statement added.
The federation said an coach Gianni De Biasi also was "upset by the flares," adding that during five years he has been in charge "I've seen something that's never happened before."
Albania's supporters light flares during a 2018 World Cup Group G qualifying soccer match between Italy and Albania, at the Renzo Barbera stadium, in Palermo, Italy, Friday, March 24, 2017. (Mike Palazzotto/ANSA via AP)
The Associated Press
Italy's Daniele De Rossi smiles during a 2018 World Cup Group G qualifying soccer match between Italy and Albania, at the Renzo Barbera stadium, in Palermo, Italy, Friday, March 24, 2017. (Mike Palazzotto/ANSA via AP)
The Associated Press
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