England Charged Over Laser Pen Incident at Euro 2020 Match

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The England soccer team was charged by Europe’s governing body for the sport over its fans’ behavior during during Wednesday’s Euro 2020 semifinal, including what appeared to be a laser pen pointing at Denmark goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel during a penalty.

UEFA opened proceedings over the incident, also charging England over a disturbance during Denmark’s national anthem, and lighting fireworks.

Television images showed a green light on Schmeichel’s face as he prepared to face an extra-time penalty kick from England’s Harry Kane. Schmeichel saved the shot, but Kane scored with the rebound, giving England a 2-1 lead that would see the country secure a place in its first major final since 1966.

UEFA said in a statement that the case will be dealt with by its Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body “in due course.” England’s Football Association didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

The penalty came during a sustained period of pressure from England, who notched up 20 shots during the game versus just six for Denmark. England’s victory sparked scenes of jubilation across the country, with the side due to return to Wembley on Sunday for the final against Italy.

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