AFC fines UAE FA $150,000 over Asian Cup semi-final incident against Qatar

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Disciplinary and Ethics Committee has sanctioned the United Arab Emirates Football Association (UAE FA) with a fine of $150,000 following the incidents that occurred during their AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 semi-final match against Qatar on January 29 at the Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi.The infringements committed by the UAE FA related to the following matters:* Liability for spectator conduct (Article 65, AFC Disciplinary and Ethics Code)* Organisation of Matches (Article 64, AFC Disciplinary and Ethics Code)* Distribution of beverages (Article 31, AFC Safety and Security Regulations)* Public passageways (Article 33, AFC Safety and Security Regulations)In addition, the UAE FA has also been ordered to play one match without spectators (ie. a full stadium closure), which will come into effect during their next match played on the territory of the United Arab Emirates during the AFC Asian Cup 2023 (Qualifiers).The UAE FA is required to settle the fine within 30 days in accordance with Article 11.3 of the AFC Disciplinary and Ethics Code and has been informed that any future violations may be met with more severe punishment.