Possible ghost match for Germany in Belgrade after UEFA sanction

The second leg of the Nations League between Germany and Serbia in Belgrade could be played without spectators for the upcoming match, because UEFA has sanctioned the Serbian association for racist and discriminatory behavior of its fans and imposed a fine of 50,000 euros.

UEFA sanctions and fines

UEFA condemned the Serbian association for the misconduct of its fans in the matches against Greece (1-2) and the Netherlands (1-2). In addition to the fine of 50,000 euros, a match behind closed doors was also ordered.

Serbia's next home match takes place on 13 November at the Rajko Mitic Stadium against the DFB eleven. The Serbian association is seeking a compromise solution to at least allow children to attend and to permit 2,000 German fans entry.

In the first leg at Munich's Allianz Arena, Serbia already had to cope without its supporters, because the fans were not admitted due to a ban. This measure was a direct consequence of the UEFA sanction from December 2024.

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UEFA had issued the sanction in December 2024, after Serbian fans in November 2024 attempted to set an Albanian flag alight during a Nations League match in Switzerland (1-1). Consequently, two home matches were partially suspended and a ban on selling away tickets was imposed for two away games – the first in March 2025 in Austria, the second during the 0-2 defeat in Munich. In addition, a fine of 80,000 euros was imposed.

After four match days, Germany sits in third place in Group B of the Nations League League A with five points, three points behind the leading duo Greece and the Netherlands. Serbia remains at the bottom of the table without any points.

Three days after the match in Belgrade, the team of new national coach Jürgen Klopp will face arch‑rival the Netherlands at Berlin's Olympiastadion to conclude the group stage.