Ecuador becomes the first country to be punished by FIFA in the ongoing World Cup. The South American side is facing a charge from Fifa for the behaviour of their fans during their World Cup opener against Qatar in Group A.
Chants from some Ecuador fans during their 2-0 win were reportedly aimed towards South American rivals Chile. Fifa’s disciplinary committee says it has begun proceedings against Ecuador. Potential sanctions for breaking article 13 of Fifa’s disciplinary code could include playing a game behind closed doors or a ban from certain venues.
Ecuador was cleared to play at the World Cup earlier this month following an appeal from Chile over the eligibility of defender Byron Castillo. Chile and Peru had lodged appeals with Fifa over Castillo’s involvement in Ecuador’s qualifying games, claiming he is Colombian and had falsified his age.
In June, Fifa ruled that 23-year-old Castillo was eligible to play international football for Ecuador, which led Chile and Peru to appeal to the Courts of Arbitration for Sport (CAS)over the decision. Ecuador faces the Netherlands in their next group game at the Khalifa International Stadium on Friday.