Summary UEFA had ordered Friday's match to be played behind closed doors at the Poljud Stadium
PARIS (AFP) - UEFA on Monday opened disciplinary proceedings against the Croatian Football Federation (HNS) after a swastika was apparently scrawled on the pitch in Split during Croatia s 1-1 Euro 2016 qualifying draw with Italy on Friday.
UEFA had ordered Friday s match to be played behind closed doors at the Poljud Stadium as punishment for fan violence and racist incidents when Croatia played Norway earlier in the qualifying campaign.
A swastika, however, appeared to be visible on the pitch at the ground which is the home of Croatian top-flight side Hajduk Split and UEFA said they would take action for "racist behaviour".
A decision on whether to take any action will be made on July 16.
Groundsmen struggled to cover up the Nazi symbol at half-time of the qualifying Group H encounter, and the HNS later issued a public apology.
"This was an obvious act of sabotage and a criminal act. We condemn it and ask the police and judicial bodies to find the person(s) responsible for what is a shame not only for Croatian football, but the entire country," Croatian federation press officer Tomislav Pacak said in a statement.
UEFA have also opened disciplinary proceedings against the Irish FA after a photographer was struck by a firework during Northern Ireland s 0-0 draw with Romania in Belfast on Saturday.
