In the heated 3: 2 of the Swiss footballers against Serbia on Friday, there were controversial scenes. That included Granit Xhaka’s crotch grab. With the day before the World Cup round of 16, everything indicates that Xhaka faces no investigation.
Fifa is investigating against Serbia: heated scenes between Swiss captain Granit Xhaka (left) and Serbia’s goalie Vanja Milinkovic-Savic.
Fifa announced on Monday that its Disciplinary Committee had opened proceedings against the Football Association of Serbia. Already after Serbia’s 2-0 defeat against Brazil, a picture made the rounds on Twitter that heated tempers.
It shows a flag depicting Serbia with the outlines of Kosovo and the call: “Never give up!” This flag had been hung in the Serbian cloakroom. Players are not visible on it.
Misconduct also by players and officials
During the game against the Swiss, several fans are said to have been spotted with this flag. There were also incidents around the stadium, as the Guardian reported on Sunday. In addition, there is said to have been misconduct by players and officials.
Fifa is specifically investigating whether Articles 12, 13 and 16 of the Disciplinary Code have been violated. These articles address player conduct, discrimination, and safety during play.
Apparently no investigation against Xhaka planned
No proceedings have been announced against the Swiss in general and against Granit Xhaka in particular. It would be amazing if one were to open, even if FIFA didn’t rule it out.
Xhaka had sparked discussions on Friday with a crotch grab with a view of the Serbian bench. After the Swiss victory, Xhaka also celebrated in the jersey of teammate Ardon Jashari. Jashari is also the surname of a folk hero who fought for Kosovo’s independence from Serbia.