Strict FIFA sanctions for Josip Šimunić

FIFA has decided to suspend Josip Šimunić for ten official matches for his shouting of the "Za dom" salute after the World Cup play-off match between Croatia and Iceland. He was also fined CHF 30,000.

This very strict punishment is probably the end of the legendary defender's international career, after 105 matches for Croatia.

At the same time, Mario Mandžukić was banned for one match. He was sent off in Zagreb for a foul on Gudmundsson.

"We are shocked. These sanctions would threaten any player's international career. We will provide full support to Šimunić as an appeal will probably be submitted, yet we have to be honest and admit that this punishment means that Šimunić will not be able to play at the World Cup in Brazil. Even though we are aware that Šimunić didn't intend to offend anyone, FIFA has obviously used this draconian ban to send out a strong message. A small consolation is that CFF efforts have resulted in one-match ban for Mandžukić, the minimum after the sending off", said the CFF Executive President Damir Vrbanović.

"I am unpleasantly surprised, shocked and disappointed with FIFA sanctions for Josip Šimunić. In the first place, I feel sorry for Josip, who will miss the the World Cup. I know him for a long time, as a player and as a man, and I am absolutely convinced that he didn't intend to offend anyone in any way. We were aware that Mandžukić will receive a ban and therefore it is good that it is only a one-match ban", said Croatia head coach Niko Kovač.

Apart from the individual sanctions, the Croatian Football Federation was fined CHF 70,000.

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