Uefa has initiated disciplinary proceedings against the English Football Association. Among other things, it is about a laser pointer that was aimed at goalkeeper Schmeichel in the EM semifinals shortly before the controversial penalty against Denmark.
It was the excitement of the evening: the controversial penalty against Denmark in the extension of the EM semifinals. Harry Kane converted him with the margin to 2-1 and shot England into the final. After the game it turned out that the Danish goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel had apparently been illuminated by a laser pointer in his face shortly before the penalty kick was taken – one of the reasons why the Uefa has now initiated disciplinary proceedings against the English football association FA. It is also investigating interference by fans while the Danish national anthem was being played and fireworks were being set off. The Continental Association announced on Thursday.
TV images show that a laser pointer was aimed at Schmeichel. Just before Kane shoots, a green light flashes over Schmeichel’s face and approaches his eyes.
British TV commentator draws attention to laser pointers
British broadcaster ITV’s TV commentator Mark Pougatch referred to the incident after the game, which initially went unnoticed. “This is completely unacceptable and ridiculous,” said Pougatch, “whoever that was is an idiot.” At first it was not known who had used the laser pointer. It was also unclear whether Schmeichel noticed anything of the attempted disturbance at all. The goalkeeper, who plays for Leicester City in the Premier League, parried Kane’s penalty but was unable to keep the margin.
Incidents with the anthems had already occurred in previous games. Before England’s round of 16 against Germany (2-0), whistles and boos were heard during the anthems.
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