UEFA Punishes CSKA Sofia for Nazi Salute and Fan Violence in Europa League Qualifier

UEFA has imposed sanctions on Bulgarian club CSKA Sofia following the behavior of its fans during the first qualifying round of the Europa League against Derry City. The incidents, which occurred last Thursday during CSKA Sofia's 2-1 away win in Northern Ireland, included Nazi salutes, throwing objects, and violent clashes in the stands that led to a 15-minute match suspension. Videos showed CSKA fans giving Nazi salutes after Derry City supporters displayed an Antifa flag, and some CSKA fans breached barriers to confront security personnel, forcing Derry fans, including children, to retreat onto the pitch for safety.

As a result, UEFA fined CSKA Sofia 50,000 euros and banned the club from selling tickets for their next away game, scheduled for Thursday against Qarabag in Azerbaijan. Additionally, UEFA issued a suspended one-match away ticket ban for two years due to the racist behavior involving the Nazi salutes. One CSKA official was fined 5,000 euros for violating basic conduct rules, and the club was ordered to compensate Derry City for stadium damages.

Derry City also received a 20,000-euro fine for their fans' misconduct, including an effective pitch invasion. Despite winning the match 2-1, Derry City was eliminated from the Europa League with a 5-3 aggregate loss and will now compete in the Conference League qualifiers, facing Croatian side Rijeka. If Maccabi Tel Aviv eliminates Sheriff Tiraspol and advances to the third qualifying round, they could face either CSKA Sofia or Qarabag next.