World Cup 2022: Fifa to charge Ecuador and Mexico over fan chants

Fifa is pursuing charges against Mexico and Ecuador for the actions of their fans during their respective teams’ opening World Cup matches in Qatar.

Some Ecuadorian supporters reportedly shouted insults at Chile after their 2-0 victory over the hosts.

The disciplinary committee of Fifa claims to have initiated legal action against Mexico and Ecuador.

The purported chants heard during Mexico’s Tuesday 0-0 tie with Poland were not further described by Fifa.

Article 13 of the Fifa disciplinary code carries potential penalties, such as playing a game behind closed doors or being barred from certain stadiums.

Following a Chilean appeal about the eligibility of defender Byron Castillo, Ecuador were permitted to participate in the World Cup earlier this month.

Castillo’s participation in Ecuador’s qualification matches was challenged by Chile and Peru with Fifa on the grounds that he was Colombian and had lied about his age.

Castillo, 23, was given permission by Fifa in June to represent Ecuador in international football. Chile and Peru then appealed the decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

The Netherlands will be Ecuador’s opponent in their upcoming group match on Friday at Khalifa International Stadium.