German national football coach Joachim Löw believes that "smaller nations should play in preliminary qualifying matches for World Cups and European Championships." Löw said, "The fixture list is overcrowded so we need some sort of remedy. Personally I would like to see the introduction of a preliminary qualification round" (REUTERS, 3/18). ... Two fans "have been arrested over racially-aggravated public order offences" at the Chelsea vs. West Ham United Premier League match (REUTERS, 3/18). ... UEFA "has charged Inter Milan over the racist behaviour of their fans" during the Europa League match against Tottenham last week. Inter fans "taunted Spurs striker Emmanuel Adebayor and other black players with monkey chants, and the abuse was reported to UEFA by the match delegate and anti-discrimination body FARE" (PA, 3/18). ... Chechen football club Terek Grozny "could face stiff penalties from the Russian FA after officials insulted the referee following Sunday's 0-0 draw against Rubin Kazan, with the stadium announcer labelling him a 'donkey'" (REUTERS, 3/18).
