The players of England have held internal discussions about how they will respond if they are subjected to racist abuse during the World Cup qualification on Tuesday to Serbia, said Captain Harry Kane, in the midst of concern about fans in Belgrade’s behavior.
The Football Association of Serbia (FSS) has appealed to supporters in a explanation to «create a positive atmosphere» and «to send an image to the world that will make us all proud.»
«We had a meeting and we discussed the protocols that are present, more from the position of UEFA, (but) I don’t think we would like to discuss it too much,» Kane told reporters on Monday.
“Our focus is on the game. Our focus is on trying to beat Serbia on the field.
«Of course everything can happen, and we are prepared for that, but we think of the game and, like the (statement) Serbian FA, it will enjoy the spectacle, enjoy the game, and we hope that is the case tomorrow.»
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The FSS attacking power came after UEFA had closed 15% of the 50,000 seats in Rajko Mitic Stadium on Tuesday as a punishment for racist behavior by Serbia fans against Andorra in June.
England players were the target of racist abuse in a euro 2020 qualifying game in Bulgaria that was stopped twice when civil servants threatened to leave the game. England won 6-0
«I thought we handled that situation in Bulgaria really well, and (Tuesday) will be no different,» said Kane.
“These are things that are now difficult to talk about because we don’t know if it will happen or not.
«But in the event that it happens, we will be willing to do what is needed.»
Most difficult test
The victory on Tuesday would bring the England team of Thomas Tuchel, which leads group K with four wins from four games, a step closer to the qualification for next year’s final.
However, it is the most difficult test in England so far.
In addition to the hostile environment that is expected in Belgrade, Serbia is the highest ranked opponents of England in the group at 32.
While the fourth rank of Tuchel does not have to admit a goal, the victories have been overwhelming. It needed its own goal to open the score during his 2-0 win over Andorra on Saturday, a nation arranged 170 places underneath.
«Let’s see how the game is going on,» said Tuchel.
“We are preparing for everything, we are in a very emotional sports country – they have world -class athletes, great talents in football – and will have quality.
«Our first road game together in a traditional stadium. I think the opportunity will put the best in us.»
Tuchel added that everyone, including defender Marc Guehi who was doubtful after a painful groin against Andorra, is available to start Tuesday.
When asked about the potential for racism, Tuchel said that UEFA had discussed protocols with the team.
«I always believe in the good and believe that we will have a sporting opportunity at a high level,» the German said.
«I don’t want to focus on it, because I believe in the beauty of the sport and the beauty of the game.»
The only earlier meeting of England with Serbia was a 1-0 group stage victory over Euro 2024.
Published on September 9, 2025
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