A little-known UEFA rule will allow 100 England fans to watch the behind-closed-doors Croatia Nations League match.
Even though England’s Nations League game against Croatia is officially behind closed doors, 100 lucky England fans will still get to be there thanks to a special agreement with UEFA.
Tuchel’s team will play the 2018 World Cup runners-up at Stadion HNK Rijeka in Croatia, but no home fans are allowed – or at least, not quite. UEFA banned Croatia from having fans after some supporters showed racist and hateful behavior during last year’s Nations League quarter-final against France.
Some fans were accused of making Nazi salutes and were briefly held by French police, though no charges were made due to lack of video proof. Croatia fans also set off fireworks in the away section at Stade de France.
Even though Croatian fans can’t cheer at the game, 100 England fans will be there to support their team as the Three Lions aim to keep their winning streak after beating Czechia 2-0 in Prague on Tuesday.
After discussions between UEFA and the FA, a small group of England Supporters Travel Club members got permission to attend. The club said: “We’re happy to confirm that following talks with UEFA, 100 active England Supporters Travel Club members will receive free tickets to the Nations League match against Croatia on October 3.”
But that’s not all – the stadium, which holds 8,279 people, will still be about 75% full thanks to a little exception in UEFA’s rules. Article 73 allows children under 14 from schools or academies to attend for free. Around 5,500 to 6,000 kids and their carers are expected to be there.
Here’s the list of who can attend this behind-closed-doors match:
Stay tuned for more updates!