Maccabi Tel Aviv Awaits UEFA Decision on Hosting Fans Amid Disciplinary Proceedings

Maccabi Tel Aviv began selling tickets for their upcoming home match against CSKA Sofia in the third qualifying round of the UEFA Europa League but halted sales after UEFA initiated disciplinary proceedings against the club. The action follows the use of flares and fireworks by fans during the previous leg against Sheriff Tiraspol. The club clarified that this does not necessarily mean a sanction of playing behind closed doors but is awaiting UEFA's decision expected on Monday. Meanwhile, CSKA Sofia is also prohibited from selling tickets to their supporters pending the outcome, leaving Bulgarian fans uncertain if they can attend the match in Batumi. This uncertainty follows a prior ban on CSKA fans traveling to Azerbaijan in the previous round due to earlier disciplinary sanctions. Both clubs issued statements to prevent fans from making travel arrangements until UEFA clarifies any restrictions. Additionally, Maccabi Tel Aviv faces a conditional sanction from a December away match against Stuttgart, which included a 20,000 euro fine and a conditional ban on ticket sales for one away game in UEFA competitions.