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'Partial stadium closure' for CSKA after racist chants at Champions League clash with Manchester City

CSKA fans have been accused of racial chanting aimed at Manchester City's Yaya Toure
CSKA fans have been accused of racial chanting aimed at Manchester City's Yaya Toure

UEFA has imposed a partial stadium closure on CSKA Moscow following the racist behaviour of their fans.

The Russian club were charged after apparent monkey noises were aimed at Manchester City's Yaya Toure during last week's Champions League game between the two clubs at the Arena Khimki.

The sanction will apply to CSKA's next home match in the competition, against Bayern Munich on 27 November.

"The European governing body has a zero-tolerance policy towards racism and discrimination" - UEFA

CSKA had vehemently denied Toure's claims that he had been racially abused during the game.

UEFA has taken a different view following a hearing of its control and disciplinary body in Switzerland, for which City submitted evidence.

UEFA believes the punishments handed out this season mark a step up in the fight against discrimination, having been criticised for fines widely considered as inadequate in previous years.
A statement read: "The fight against racism is a high priority for UEFA.

"The European governing body has a zero-tolerance policy towards racism and discrimination on the pitch and in the stands.

"All forms of racist behaviour are considered serious offences against the disciplinary regulations and are punished with the most severe sanctions.

"Following the entry into force of the new disciplinary regulations on 1 June, the fight against racist conduct has been stepped up a level - resulting in more severe sanctions to deter any such behaviour."

Under the regulations, a second offence of racial abuse concerning spectators could result in a full stadium closure.

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