October 14 (Reuters) – UEFA will investigate an incident of alleged racist abuse against Sweden’s Anthony Elanga in a qualifier during the 21-year-old European Championship against Italy on Tuesday.

Elanga, who was taken off in the 72nd minute, was involved in an incident with opposing players after the final whistle, with the Swedish Football Association saying that the Manchester United winger was racistly beaten by an Italian player. Read more

The governing body of European football said in a statement: “In accordance with Article 31 (4) of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations, a UEFA ethics and disciplinary inspector has been appointed to conduct a disciplinary inquiry into the incidents …”

However, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has denied the allegations, saying it was hopeful that the competent authorities would soon clarify the situation.

“FIGC categorically denies that an opponent was subjected to racist abuse by a U21 national team player during yesterday’s match … we understand that no such incident was observed by match officials or UEFA delegates,” it said.

Reporting by Dhruv Munjal in Bengaluru Editing by Toby Davis

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