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England vs Bulgaria Game Stopped After Racist Abuse Directed At Players

England vs Bulgaria Game Stopped After Racist Abuse Directed At Players

Awful scenes.

Jack Kenmare

Jack Kenmare

England's European Championship qualifier against Bulgaria was brought to a halt on Monday night after players were subject to racist abuse.

The first step of UEFA's three-step racism protocol was triggered in the first half of the tie after abuse was directed towards players at the Vasil Levski National Stadium in Sofia.

England captain Harry Kane approached referee Ivan Bebek to inform him of booing from the stands.

Moments later, an announcement was made over the speakers demanding the racist chanting stop.

"Because of racist behaviour which is interfering with the game, the referee has indicated he may have to suspend the match." the announcer said.

"Please be in no doubt that the game may be suspended and abandoned if racist behaviour continues."


It didn't take long for the game to be halted again after further racial abuse, and stage two of UEFA's three-step racism protocol was triggered.

England are currently 4-0 up in the European qualifier. Marcus Rashford opened the scoring for The Three Lions against Krasimir Balakov's side with a cracking finish.

He drilled the ball past a helpless Plamen Iliev inside the box to make it 1-0 as Gareth Southgate's side made the perfect start.

Ross Barkley then scored a second for England in the 20th minute, latching on to a shot turned cross from Manchester City winger Raheem Sterling.

The Chelsea midfielder then scored his brace on the half hour mark, before Raheem Sterling made it four just before half-time.

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Topics: SPORT, Football News, Football, International Football, England