Inter to play two Serie A matches behind closed doors

Inter Milan will play two home Serie A games behind closed doors following the racist abuse of Napoli defender Kalidou Koulibaly during their Boxing Day game.

They will also play a third game with the ‘curva’ section of the San Siro – popular with the hardcore ‘ultras’ – closed to supporters.

Inter are currently deciding whether to appeal the fan ban, which comes after an incident and controversy packed 1-0 victory over Napoli on Wednesday.

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The Italian FA president, Gabriele Gravin threatened to suspend the league after the shocking scenes – an Inter supporter died following a fight with Napoli fans in which four people were stabbed.

The 35-year-old was hit by a van which, according to reports in Italy, was being driven by Napoli fans an hour before kick-off at the San Siro on Wednesday. He underwent emergency surgery at hospital but died from his injuries.

It was also reported in the Italian press that rival fans had been armed with chains and hammers and around 60 people were involved in the brawl.

“Football is the heritage of true supporters and as such should be defended from all those who use it as a tool to create tension,” Gravina said.

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“We condemn all forms of both physical and verbal violence, with the aggravating circumstance of racial discrimination. We do not tolerate such behaviour ruining football.”

On the pitch, Senegal international defender Koulibaly was subjected to racial abuse – after the 27-year-old was repeatedly subjected to monkey noises.