Kosovo Soccer Players Walk Off Field During Romania Match

Political Tensions Flare as Sports Event Turns Sour

Walkout Prompts FIFA Investigation

Political tensions between Kosovo and Romania boiled over on the soccer field in a match that was abandoned in its final minutes when Kosovo players walked off the pitch.

The incident occurred during a UEFA Nations League match, with Kosovo leading 1-0. In the 90th minute, a drone carrying a flag of Greater Albania was flown over the stadium in Bucharest, Romania.

Kosovo players and staff were angered by the flag, which they saw as a provocation. They left the field and refused to continue playing, prompting the referee to abandon the match.

The incident has sparked outrage in Kosovo, with the country's president calling it a "clear provocation" and a "violation of sporting ethics." Romania has condemned the drone incident, saying it "regrets the interruption of the match."

FIFA has opened an investigation into the incident and has said it will take "appropriate action" against those responsible.