In a Euro 2024 qualifier marked by a temporary suspension due to fan behavior, Romania triumphed over Kosovo with a 2-0 victory in Bucharest. The match had an unexpected interruption when Romanian fans repeatedly chanted pro-Serbia slogans, but it eventually resumed, allowing Romania to secure the win.
The game came to an abrupt halt in the 18th minute as some of the crowd began chanting “Serbia Serbia,” and a player confronted individuals in the stands displaying a sign that read “Kosovo is Serbia.” The referee made the decision to send the players back to the changing rooms, suspending the match.
After a suspension lasting 50 minutes, play resumed, with UEFA noting on their website, “The match has resumed after play was suspended due to discriminatory behaviour from some supporters.”
Kosovo declared its independence from Serbia in 2008 and garnered recognition from over 100 countries. However, it has not secured recognition from Romania, leading to tensions surrounding the match.
The game continued, and just before halftime, Kosovo’s Vedat Muriqi received his second yellow card after a foul on Romanian midfielder Vladimir Screciu, resulting in his dismissal.
In the second half, Romania capitalized on their numerical advantage, with Nicolae Stanciu netting a goal in the 83rd minute. Valentin Mihaila added another goal in stoppage time, sealing the 2-0 victory for Romania.
This important win propelled Romania into second place in Group I, accumulating 12 points, just two points behind the group leaders, Switzerland. On the other hand, Kosovo slipped to fifth place in the group standings.
