Croatia faces UEFA sanctions

UEFA has acted to stamp out monkey chanting at EURO 2012 after opening disciplinary proceedings against Croatia over the alleged abuse of Mario Balotelli.



European football's governing body announced it was taking action against the Croatian Football Federation over the racist behaviour of its fans during the country's 1-1 Group C draw against Italy on Thursday.



It was unclear whether the proceedings were also intended to deal with claims a banana was thrown onto the field during the game in Poznan or if that would be handled separately.



UEFA was quoted in a statement: "UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Croatian Football Federation (HNS) for the setting-off and throwing of fireworks, and the improper conduct of supporters (racist chants, racist symbols) at the UEFA Euro 2012 Group C match against Italy in Poznan on Thursday.



"The UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body will deal with the case on 19 June."