World Cup 2018: 4 off the pitch incidents that created political murmurings

Celebrities Attend France v Belgium At 2018 World Cup
French President Macron and the Belgian king exchanging pleasantries during the France v. Belgium semi-final.

#2 Vida's glory to Ukraine video

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Croatian defender Domagoj Vida was seen shouting "Glory to Ukraine" after Croatia beat Russia on penalties to progress to the semi-finals. The Besiktas defender scored an extra-time goal that put Croatia forward in their quarterfinal against Russia.

However, it was neutralized by a sensational equalizer taking the game to penalties.'Glory to Ukraine' is a phrase used by politicians who disagree with Russia's foreign policy of annexation of the Russian dominated Crimea region of Ukraine.

Vida, who used to play in Ukraine for Dynamo Kiev, allegedly adds 'Belgrade burn' in the second video clip mocking his arch rivals "Serbia" and their cosy relationship with Russia.

The former Dynamo Kiev player’s actions were widely perceived as anti-Russian, prompting the host nation’s fans to greet the player with boos every time he touched the ball in the semi-final against England.

According to FIFA's disciplinary code, any use of political slogans is strictly prohibited. Vida apologised, later on, saying the video was just a joke. He might have been cleared by FIFA to play the semi-final but has invited the ire and hostility of the host nation and its spectators. Coach Ognjen Vukojevic seen alongside Vida in the controversial video was sacked and sent home by the Croatian FA.

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