Pro-Nazi chants before Ajax match slammed by Croatia leaders
Condemnation after the match
President Zoran Milanovic condemned the incident in a statement on Friday, calling it “unacceptable and shameful”. Israel’s embassy in Zagreb said it was “deeply shocked” and condemned the antisemitic incident in the strongest terms.
Hajduk Split said it had apologised to UEFA and Ajax, who had seen scenes the club did not want Europe to remember. The Croatian football federation also denounced the incident.
Detentions and match stoppage
Hajduk defeated Ajax 2-1 in the match. The chants took place before the game, according to the reports of the incident.
A history of extremist displays
Croatia’s hardcore ultra-nationalist supporters have damaged the country’s image over the years through pro-fascist slogans and displays of Ustasha symbols. The country has also seen greater tolerance of its pro-Nazi past in recent years, while critics say authorities have not adequately punished the use of Ustasha emblems.
Key points
- Croatian leaders and Israel’s embassy condemned the chants before Hajduk Split played Ajax.
- Dozens of fans were detained, and flares caused a stoppage of more than 10 minutes.
- Hajduk won 2-1 and apologised to UEFA and Ajax.
- UEFA deducted a point from Croatia after a swastika was painted on the Split pitch in 2015.