Hong Kong Football Association fined by Fifa for booing China national anthem before World Cup qualifier

Fans booed and turned their back during the anthem before the 2-0 loss at home to Iran

Hong Kong fans turned their back on the Chinese national anthem (AFP/Getty)

Fifa have fined Hong Kong’s Football Association (HKFA) £12,332 (15,000 Swiss francs) after their fans disrespected the Chinese national anthem before last month’s World Cup qualifier against Iran.

Hong Kong fans booed and turned their backs while the anthem was played on September 10.

The game took place during the ongoing pro-democracy protests against China’s rule of Hong Kong, which was under British rule until 1997.

Hong Kong lost the match 2-0 and next plays at home on November 14 against Bahrain.

Also, FIFA fined Indonesia £36,996 (45,000 Swiss francs) for fan disorder in a home qualifier against neighbouring Malaysia.

The Hong Kong fans boo the Chinese national anthem (AFP/Getty)

The game was suspended for several minutes late in the second half because of clashes between fans. Malaysia won 3-2 with a goal in the seventh minute of stoppage time.

Fifa warned Malaysia for its fans’ lack of discipline and throwing objects.

AP contributed to this report