England vs Bulgaria match suspended twice after racist abuse from stands

England’s 6-0 win against Bulgaria in a Euro 2020 qualifier on Thursday evening was overshadowed by reports of racist abuse that forced two brief suspensions of the game.

Euronews reports that footage from the home stands at the Vasil Levski National Stadium in Sofia showed a group of hooded men shouting and performing Nazi salutes, before they were later seen being escorted to the exit. Local reports said some spectators were also heard making monkey noises.

The behaviour forced the referee to bring the game to a halt for the first time in the 27th minute, before making a tannoy announcement that warned further “racist behaviour” would lead to it being abandoned entirely.

The game recommenced two minutes later, only to be halted for a second time in the 41st minute.

“Because of racist behaviour, which is interfering with the game, the referee has indicated he may have to suspend the match,” the announcer said adding that the game may be suspended and abandoned if racist behaviour continues.”

Via Euronews