UEFA to Investigate Flares on Pitch During Czech Republic vs. Croatia

Croatia are facing potential punishment after UEFA confirmed it will open disciplinary proceedings following the crowd disturbances that erupted during Friday's 2-2 draw against the Czech Republic.

Croatia coach Ante Cacic branded sections of his side's support "sports terrorists," per BBC Sport, after flares were thrown onto the pitch close to full time at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, Saint-Etienne, France.

Sky Sports News HQ confirmed European football's governing body UEFA will investigate the matter:

One of the flares almost caused serious injury to a steward, and even a group of Croatia players got too close to the action attempting to calm their fans, who were seen breaking into brawls as the incident unfolded.

Cacic went on to insist it's a very small minority of the nation's supporters who behave in this manner, per BBC Sport, and called for the Croatian Football Association to take action against those responsible:

"

They are not really Croatia supporters. These people are scary and I call them hooligans. ...

... The 95% of Croatian supporters are ashamed in front of Europe. 

These are sports terrorists. This is maybe just a question about six to 10 individuals. I hope they can be identified and punished. I hope the Croatia FA is doing everything to prevent this, but it is impossible to avoid.

"

Croatia led 2-1 when the flares were thrown onto the pitch, thanks to goals from Ivan Perisic and Ivan Rakitic. Milan Skoda then pulled one back before substitute Tomas Necid converted a 92nd-minute penalty to rescue the draw.

According to football writer Aleksandar Holiga, those responsible for throwing flares on the pitch did so because they "hate what Croatian football has become," further elaborating on their alleged motives:

Referee Mark Clattenburg halted the fixture to speak with his fellow officials and the two managers before resuming the game, after which nine minutes of extra time were played.

It was an extremely disappointing end to what was otherwise a terrific spectacle, complete with the kind of last-minute drama we've come to expect of these European Championships.

Michael Steele/Getty Images

Those Croatian supporters who threw flares on the field certainly appeared to divide opinion among their own fans after fights broke out, perhaps as others took umbrage with their behaviour. Andy Mitten told BBC Radio 5 live he "saw fighting," before adding "it was horrible to watch" (h/t BBC Sport).

The incident certainly didn't help Croatia's Euro 2016 hopes in any case, with the team descending from a 2-1 lead and guaranteeing qualification to drawing 2-2 and now needing a win over Spain if they're to top Group D.