Serbia has issued a serious warning that they might quit Euro 2024. This comes after fans from Croatia and Albania were accused of shouting offensive chants during a recent match in Group B. The alleged incident took place during the 2-2 draw between Croatia and Albania, where the fans reportedly chanted “kill, kill, kill the Serb.”

Jovan Surbatovic, the General Secretary of the Football Association of Serbia, has formally requested that UEFA take action against Croatia and Albania for these chants. He stated that Serbia would withdraw from the tournament without punishment.

In a statement to RTS, Surbatovic expressed his gratitude for Serbian fans' support in their match against England and voiced hope for a victory in their next game against Slovenia. However, he condemned the offensive chants, calling them scandalous, and insisted that UEFA impose sanctions on the Croatian and Albanian football federations. Surbatovic emphasized that Serbia does not want to continue in the competition if such behavior goes unpunished.

Serbia's stand on the offensive chants

Surbatovic highlighted that Serbia had already faced sanctions for isolated incidents involving its fans, who he claimed behaved better than others. He mentioned that one Serbian fan had been punished for racist insults, but he stressed that this should not reflect on the entire fanbase. He appealed to Serbian fans to continue behaving respectfully and with open hearts.

Despite the controversy, Serbia lost its Group C opener to England by a 1-0 score. It is now preparing to play against Slovenia in hopes of securing a better result. The stakes are high, as withdrawing from the tournament would have significant consequences for Serbia. If it pulls out, its final group-stage match against Denmark would be canceled, and Denmark would be awarded an automatic 3-0 win. Additionally, Serbia would face a substantial fine from UEFA.

In Group B, Croatia and Albania have just one point after two matches. Croatia lost 3-0 to Spain in their opening game and managed a last-minute equalizer against Albania. Having lost to Italy in their first match, Albania needs a significant victory against Spain in their final group game to advance.

Surbatovic also mentioned a previous incident where a so-called journalist from Albania was removed from the championship after Serbia's appeal. He expressed confidence that UEFA would act on their current complaint, stressing that Serbia does not wish to be part of a tournament where such behavior is tolerated.

The controversy adds to the tension surrounding Serbia's performance and presence in Euro 2024. With their next game against Slovenia approaching, the team must stay focused despite the off-field distractions. A win against Slovenia could boost their morale and standing in the tournament, but the potential threat of withdrawal looms large.

UEFA's decision on the matter will be closely watched. If the governing body decides to sanction Croatia and Albania, it could set a precedent for handling such incidents. Conversely, if UEFA takes no action, it might lead to further disputes and dissatisfaction among participating nations, potentially affecting the tournament's integrity.

Serbia's potential withdrawal from Euro 2024 hangs in the balance as they await UEFA's response to their complaint. The Serbian football association is adamant about not continuing in the tournament if the offensive chants go unpunished. The outcome of their next game against Slovenia and UEFA's decision will be crucial in determining Serbia's future in Euro 2024. Fans and players alike eagerly await how the situation unfolds, hoping for a resolution that upholds the values of respect and sportsmanship in football.