The Prime Minister of Slovakia Robert Fico wants the continental soccer governing body UEFA to investigate the exit of his country from the group stage of the Under-21 Championship, according to reports by the BBC.
Italy and Germany progressed as the Slovaks and Polish side crashed out of the group stage of the tournament. But Fico wants more answers. He sent a letter to the body, describing happenings as a “farce performed by players from countries advanced in football.”
Italy had defeated Germany 1-0 for both sides to move through to the next round. That was the only score that could have made both teams progress so the PM could be hinting match fixing. Both soccer giants Italy and Germany have denied any collusion to get a mutually favourable result.
Fico asked that UEFA look into the matter and enact rules that would prevent a repeat in subsequent tournaments.
“it is disrespectful towards the athletes themselves, fans and also the countries they represent,” Fico added.
Germany were ahead of Slovakia in terms of goal difference. Italy had the top spot in Group C to progress. Slovakia were second in Group A but Germany beat them to the best placed runners up spot.
Coaches of the concerned teams traded accusations and counter accusations. Italy coach Luigi Di Biagio asked that the Slovak counterpart PavelHapal be banned for his claims. In the German camp, the sporting director Horst Hrubesch denied the allegations, claiming the team only treaded softy in the last few minutes as they were aware of their fate.
Germany would move to play the young lions of England while Italy face Spain in the last four.