Maccabi Tel Aviv Banned From Hosting CSKA Sofia Fans in Europa League Match

Maccabi Tel Aviv has been sanctioned by UEFA to play their upcoming Europa League third qualifying round match against CSKA Sofia behind closed doors. The decision came just three days before the game, which will take place in Batumi, Georgia. The punishment follows the use of pyrotechnics by Maccabi fans during their previous match against Sheriff Tiraspol, which UEFA deemed a violation. In addition to the fan ban, Maccabi Tel Aviv was fined 40,000 euros.

Last Friday, UEFA initiated disciplinary proceedings against Maccabi Tel Aviv, halting ticket sales for the home game against CSKA Sofia until the investigation was complete. The Israeli champions had advanced impressively to this stage with a 6-0 aggregate victory over Sheriff Tiraspol. The club officially announced the suspension of ticket sales pending the outcome of UEFA's disciplinary process related to the pyrotechnics incident during the Sheriff match.

This ruling means Maccabi Tel Aviv will face CSKA Sofia without the support of their fans, a significant blow ahead of the crucial Europa League qualifier. The club and supporters will now await further developments as UEFA finalizes its disciplinary measures.