UEFA has mandated that Kosovo forfeit a Nations League match held in Romania, following the team’s refusal to continue playing during second-half stoppage time. The match was scoreless at 0-0 when Kosovo players reacted to pro-Serbian chants from the crowd. As a result of Kosovo’s decision, Romania has been granted a 3-0 victory by default for the game that took place last Friday in Bucharest. Furthermore, UEFA has stipulated that Romania must play its first home match in the upcoming World Cup qualifying group in an empty stadium due to prior incidents involving “racist” chants directed towards Hungary by Romanian supporters.

Although Romania was awarded the three points, this decision did not alter the overall standings of the Nations League’s third-tier group for either team. Even had Kosovo secured a 3-0 default win, both teams would have ended with 15 points; Romania would still finish at the top based on goal difference.

Additionally, the Romanian soccer federation has been fined 128,000 euros (approximately $135,000) due to multiple infractions, including “xenophobic anti-Hungarian chants,” improper political messages not conducive to a sporting event, and disruptions of national anthems.

It is important to note that Romania does not recognize Kosovo’s independence, which was declared in 2008 after separating from Serbia. The contentious match experienced significant tension, leading to confrontations on the field; ultimately, Kosovo players chose to leave the pitch during stoppage time as the situation escalated.