UEFA charges Russia over fan violence

WARSAW (AP) ― UEFA charged the Russian soccer association on Saturday after fans were filmed fighting with stadium stewards after a European Championship match.

UEFA also is seeking more evidence to investigate reports of “alleged abuse directed at Czech Republic players” during Russia’s 4-1 win in Wroclaw on Friday.

“UEFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Football Union of Russia for the improper conduct of its supporters,” it said in a statement.

Anti-racist experts appointed by UEFA to monitor matches reported Saturday that fans verbally abused Czech defender Theodor Gebre Selassie, who is black.

UEFA’s disciplinary panel will review the case against Russia ― using “security reports and available images” ― on Wednesday.

The alleged improper conduct relates to “crowd disturbances, the setting off and throwing of fireworks and the display of illicit banners,” UEFA said.

Four stewards at the Euro 2012 stadium in Wroclaw were hospitalized and later discharged after being attacked by Russia fans, city police said.

Messi works hat-trick magic

EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey (AP) ― Lionel Messi scored on three dazzling runs for his second international hat trick, finishing the season with a record 82 goals for club and country and giving Argentina a 4-3 win over South American rival Brazil in an exhibition game Saturday.

With Brazil using a mostly young roster ahead of the Olympics, Romulo put the five-time world champions ahead in the 23rd minute.

Messi gave Argentina a 2-1 lead with goals in the 31st and 34th on spectacular dashes that beat the defense, but Oscar tied the score in the 56th and Hulk tapped in a corner kick dropped by goalkeeper Sergio Romero in the 72nd.

Argentina came back once again three minutes later when Frederico Fernandez scored off a corner kick by Sergio Aguero, who had just entered the game.