Some Slovenian fans joined Serbs in chanting the nationalist Serbian song “Kosovo is the heart of Serbia”. There was a banner spotted behind the goal during Italy vs Albania reading “Kosovo is Albania”. Croatia and Albania fans chanted “Kill, kill, kill the Serb,” during their draw. Serbia threatened to quit the tournament.
And so it has gone and may continue to go, a series of tit-for-tat responses from increasingly riled up players and fans. Unrest in the region is certainly nothing new, and nor is football becoming the focal point for nationalist sentiment. Albania were awarded a 3-0 win in…