England in UEFA’s crosshairs over Schmeichel’s laser pointer

UEFA has confirmed that disciplinary proceedings have been opened against England following their Euro 2020 semi-final win over Denmark, with the use of a “laser pointer” by fans listed as a charge.

Booing of the Danish national anthem by a group of England fans was also investigated closely, as well as the setting off of fireworks after the 2-1 victory after extra time. Gareth Southgate’s team is now preparing for a final with Italy at Wembley on Sunday, but is waiting to find out what action, if any, will be taken.

England were behind on the scoreboard against the Danes after conceding their first goal in this competition with a beautiful free kick from Mikkel Damsgaard. An own goal by Simon Kjaer nine minutes later restored parity and took the game beyond the 90 minutes.

Match officials gathered for a discussion before the start of extra time, with referee Danny Makkelie seemingly suggesting that a laser was used in the crowd. TV cameras then captured a light on the face of Danish goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel as he prepared to face a Harry Kane penalty. The Leicester shot-stopper saved the spot kick, but released the ball and it was taken victoriously by the Three Lions forward. The latter admitted at the final whistle that he was a bit lucky on the shot.

European soccer’s governing body is investigating the incident, as well as a number of other accusations.

A UEFA statement reads: “Disciplinary proceedings have been opened following the UEFA Euro 2020 semi-final match between England and Denmark at Wembley Stadium in London on 7 July. The charges against England are: use of laser pointers by its supporters; disturbance caused by its supporters during the national anthem; and setting off fireworks by its supporters. The case will be dealt with by UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) in due course.”