Ukraine receives stadium ban for fans' racism abuse

KIEV - The Ukrainian national soccer team had to play their next home World Cup qualifier behind closed doors following their fans' racist chants and inappropriate behaviors in the match against San Marino on September 6.

"FIFA was informed by FARE (Football Against Racism Europe) that several racist and discriminatory incidents were apparently perpetrated by local supporters during the match, in particular by displaying neo-Nazi banners and by making 'monkey noises and gestures' as well as Nazi salutes," said a FIFA statement.

FIFA also said there were "several incidents involving pyrotechnical devices" that violated safety regulations.

Ukraine were fined 45,000 Swiss francs (some 50,000 US dollars) and had to play in an empty stadium during their next World Cup qualifier at home against Poland on October 11.

Ukraine smashed San Marino 9-0 in the World Cup qualifier and are ranking second, tying with Montenegro, with one point behind leaders England in qualifying Group H for next year's finals in Brazil.