Serbia 0-5 England: Referee Pauses World Cup Qualifier after Laser Shines on Ezri Konsa
The referee halted England’s 5-0 victory in Belgrade after a spectator used a laser pen to distract defender Ezri Konsa, raising security concerns during the match.
Referee Stops Play After Laser Shines on England Defender
The incident came in the 38th minute of the World Cup qualifier at Stadion Rajko Mitic in Belgrade, when Ezri Konsa threw his head back after a green laser beam distracted him mid-game. Moments earlier, a similar beam had targeted Reece James as he stepped up for a free kick.
French official Clément Turpin called a brief halt to the match, consulting with the fourth official before play resumed. The stadium then broadcast a warning against laser pens and other pyrotechnics through the public address system.
Later in the second half, riot police entered the stands following anti-government chants from home supporters. There were also derogatory chants related to Kosovo throughout the match. FIFA sanctions had already closed at least 15% of Belgrade's seating to home fans, a penalty for racist chanting during a previous fixture against Andorra.
The Serbian Football Association said it has faced fines exceeding £600,000 from FIFA and UEFA over the past five years.
The match was briefly stopped due to a laser pen aimed at Ezri Konsa, underlining ongoing security challenges at international fixtures.
This topic was reported by BBC Sport.
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