The Serbian Football Federation (FSS) has issued a statement addressing the recent events following the national team's match in Albania, where controversial remarks made by head coach Dragan Stojković sparked significant attention.

Stojković clarified that his focus during the match was solely on the game, including the players, tactics, and results.

He praised the atmosphere at the stadium, highlighting the full stands and support for the Serbian team as positive for football.

However, he acknowledged that he did not fully register the offensive and scandalous chants directed at his team during the match, which have been widely reported in the media.

Stojković condemned any form of chanting that insults the Serbian people or the national team, stating that such incidents have no place in sports.

He expressed that allegations suggesting he supports extremists and promotes hate against his nation are absurd.

Throughout his playing and managerial career, Stojković asserted that he has consistently demonstrated his patriotism and connection to his country.

The FSS echoed his sentiments, describing the crowd's behavior in Tirana as a significant disappointment on a night when Serbia remained unbeaten and secured a valuable point in their World Cup qualifying campaign.

The statement emphasized that the entire Serbian delegation received excellent hospitality from the Albanian Football Federation and its president, Armand Duka, from their arrival at the airport to their departure from Tirana.

Nevertheless, the FSS condemned the political expressions of hate and provocations, along with chants glorifying terrorist organizations and inciting new crimes, which overshadowed the competitive spirit of the match.

It was reported that physical threats were also posed to Serbian players, with coins, full cups, and bottles thrown from the stands.

The Italian referee interrupted the game multiple times, while the official announcer attempted to address the situation without success.

The FSS described the provocative behavior, which included whistling during the national anthem and subsequent offensive chants and projectiles aimed at Serbian players, as contrary to the principles of fair play and international respect that football aims to promote.

The FSS concluded its statement by expressing gratitude to the Albanian Football Federation for their generosity and warm welcome, while firmly condemning the unacceptable behavior witnessed during the match.