Shaqiri, Xhaka under FIFA probe

Moscow: FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Switzerland players Xherdan Shaqiri and Granit Xhaka, looking into their goal celebrations during Friday's win over Serbia at the World Cup. Both players, who are ethnic Albanians and of Kosovar heritage, celebrated with a gesture which appeared to imitate the eagle displayed on Albanias flag. 

Serbia refuses to recognise the independence of its former province Kosovo, whose 1.8 million people are mostly ethnic Albanians, which broke away 10 years ago. The players denied that their celebration was political.

“For me it was a really special day,” said Xhaka. “This is a victory for my family, for Switzerland, Albania, Kosovo. 

The gesture was for everyone who has supported me; it was not aimed at our opponents. It was a really emotional game,” he added.