ZURICH (Switzerland), Sept 17: FIFA has opened an investigation into allegations that Croatia’s fans racially abused England striker Emile Heskey during a World Cup qualifying match last week.

World football’s governing body said Wednesday that it has begun disciplinary proceedings after England’s Football Association lodged an official complaint late Tuesday.

Racist chants were directed at Heskey at Maksimir Stadium in Zagreb after he was booked for a challenge on Croatia captain Niko Kovac during the second half of England’s 4-1 victory on Sept. 10.—AP