UEFA’s disciplinary body has opened proceedings after a homophobic sign was allegedly held towards Brighton supporters by a fan in the Roma crowd during Thursday’s Europa League tie.
The Athletic reported on Saturday Brighton had asked UEFA to investigate the incident, with the club providing photographic evidence, seen by The Athletic, of a spectator in the home section at the Stadio Olimpico holding up the alleged sign.
The sign was one of three incidents Brighton asked European football’s governing body to investigate after the 4-0 defeat in the first leg of their last-16 tie.
A UEFA match delegate was taken by members of the club’s security and safety team to witness fans in the away end having missiles thrown at them by home supporters, including bottles, coins and lighters.
UEFA’s disciplinary body has since opened proceedings following Thursday’s game in relation to a provocative message of an offensive and political nature, blocking of public passageways, lighting of fireworks and throwing of objects.
Brighton also asked UEFA to look at the VAR process which allowed Roma’s third goal, scored by Gianluca Mancini in the 64th minute, to stand.
Replays appeared to show Mancini was offside when he volleyed in Stephen El Shaarawy’s cross.
The Athletic has contacted Roma for comment.
The night before the match, Brighton fans suffered lower body wounds when they were stabbed as they left a bar in the city. The injuries were not serious and both supporters were later discharged.
The second leg takes place at the Amex Stadium on Thursday.
(Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
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