Referees Stop Burma-Oman World Cup Qualifying Match

Posted July 28th, 2011 at 12:30 pm (UTC-5)
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Authorities in Burma abandoned a World Cup qualifying match between the home team and Oman Thursday, after angry fans threw rocks and glass bottles at a referee and some of Oman's players.

Oman was leading 1-0 when the violence erupted. The Burmese fans turned unruly when a Japanese referee awarded a penalty kick to Oman. The playing field at Thuwanna stadium was bombarded with objects when Oman converted the penalty.

The outburst forced players to run for the cover of their dressing rooms.

It was not immediately clear whether the game will be replayed or whether Oman will be declared the winner by forfeit.

But analysts say Oman will most likely advance to the third round group stage, while Burma could face disciplinary action from football's (soccer's) governing council, FIFA.