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Denmark fined by FIFA over sexist banner, fan behavior

FIFA has hit the Danish Football Association with a $20,400 fine and issued a warning after Danish World Cup fans displayed a sexist banner and created crowd disturbances during Denmark’s 1-1 draw with Australia on Thursday.

According to a statement issued by FIFA, the rowdy Danes threw objects at Australian fans and violated “pre-match protocol” ahead of the two nation’s Group C clash at Samara Arena.

Denmark fans are seen behind their flags before kick off of the Russia 2018 World Cup Group C football match between Denmark and Australia at the Samara Arena in Samara on June 21, 2018. (Getty Images)
Denmark fans are seen behind their flags before kick off of the Russia 2018 World Cup Group C football match between Denmark and Australia at the Samara Arena in Samara on June 21, 2018. (Getty Images)

The violation of pre-match protocols would seem to refer to the Danish fans failing to respect the Australian national anthem prior to the match kicking off.

As for the banner in question? There have been conflicting reports, but it looks like the controversy might have been over the one pictured below.

It looks innocuous enough, but apparently “store patter” translates to . . . Well, we’ll just let you research that one.

Real classy Denmark fans, real classy.

While there’s been no official public response from Denmark, Danish FA Communications Manager Jakob Hoyer did weigh in.

“We are taking note of the fine and, in addition, have a full focus on the match on Tuesday,” said Hoyer in a text message to Danish news agency, Ritzau.

Denmark currently sits second in its group, behind leaders France. The two will meet Tuesday on the final matchday of Group C. Denmark has a good chance to clinch passage to the next round, either by securing a win or draw against France, or seeing Australia drop points to Peru in the group’s other match on Tuesday.

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