Guangzhou Evergrande escape with slap on wrist for ‘Annihilate British dogs’ banner displayed in Hong Kong
Club hit with suspended two-match stadium ban and US$22,500 fine after supporters displayed banner demanding ‘Annihilate British dogs, eliminate Hong Kong independence poison’
The Chinese champions received a fine of US$22,500 and a suspended two-match stadium ban after their supporters unfurled a banner reading “Annihilate British dogs, extinguish Hong Kong [independence] poison” at Mong Kok Stadium against Hong Kong champions Eastern last month.
The club was found guilty of discrimination and spectator misconduct under the Asian Football Confederation’s rules.
“In the AFC Champions League, Guangzhou Evergrande were found to have violated Article 58 and Article 65 of the AFC Disciplinary and Ethics Code relating to the actions of away supporters at the match Eastern SC (HKG) vs Guangzhou Evergrande on April 25,” said an AFC statement.
“Away supporters displayed a banner depicting a discriminatory message relating to national origin and political opinion.
“Guangzhou Evergrande were ordered to play two future matches in AFC club competitions which they host in China PR without spectators, with both matches suspended for a probationary period of two years. They were also fined USD22,500.”
If there is a further breach of the rules within the probationary period, the stadium ban comes into effect. Guangzhou were warned that a repeat violation will lead to more severe punishment.
Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale were fined US$15,000 and given a one-match suspended ban after fans displayed Japan’s war-time flag against South Korea’s Suwon Bluewings, while Lebanon’s Nejmeh SC were also punished for spectator misconduct.
The Eastern-Guangzhou match was the latest example of political tensions between Hong Kong and mainland China being played out in the stands of Mong Kok stadium.
