Thousands of schoolchildren to attend England’s Nations League match against Croatia in Rijeka
England’s Nations League match against Croatia in Rijeka is set to be played behind closed doors, but the stadium will not be empty.
Between 3,000 and 6,000 Croatian schoolchildren have been allowed to attend the game at Stadion Riejka, despite the standing UEFA order that the fixture be held without supporters. England fans were initially shut out as well, before 100 complimentary tickets were later allowed for away supporters.
The unusual arrangement follows crowd disturbances involving Croatia fans during a Nations League match against France in March 2025. Seven fans were taken into custody on suspicion of making Nazi salutes, and fireworks were also set off in the stands.
Croatia were already without travelling supporters for their 2-1 win in the Czech Republic last Saturday. The match against England is now the latest consequence of that punishment, and it will be played in an atmosphere very different from a normal Nations League night.
Reporting
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