Soccer · European

UEFA to investigate racism at U-21 tournament

UEFA are set to launch an investigation into the scenes that marred England Under-21's victory over Serbia that secured a place in the European Championships semi-finals.

Nedum Onuoha was racially abused by Serbia fans during the first half in Nijmegen and Justin Hoyte was targeted in the tunnel by players after the 2-0 win.

UEFA were forced to make an impromptu anti-racism announcement at Goffert Stadion after the abuse aimed at Onuoha. Officials will wait until they receive a match report before deciding whether to take action.

'He's an outstanding young man, not just as a footballer,' said boss Stuart Pearce, who coached Onuoha at Manchester City.

'I've got that first-hand knowledge of him and he comes from a great family. He's a credit to the English nation.

'He's such a strong character, that's the case with most of our players. I told them that is what is going to happen at international level.

'It's difficult to keep restraint under provocation. You've got to learn that in football.'

 
England U-21 manager Stuart Pearce had nothing but praise for his racially-abused player Nedum Onuoha
England U-21 manager Stuart Pearce had nothing but praise for his racially-abused player Nedum Onuoha
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