Press release
HNS regrets the incident, demands legal action
13.06.2015.
Following the European Qualifier between Croatia and Italy, Croatian Football Federation press officer Tomislav Pacak gave an official statement to media representatives.
His statement in full:
"We apologize to all viewers, our guests from Italy and the players from both teams, for the nazi symbol on the Poljud Stadium grass.
Technically speaking, a chemical agent was used on the field 24 to 48 hours before the kick-off, timed to be visible during the qualifying match. During the halftime, we have tried to remedy the situation to the best of our abilities, given the short amount of time.
We have immediately notified UEFA of the incident.
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.
Once again, we express regret and condemn this act, and we apologize to all the viewers, guests and players from both teams".
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