AFFA files UEFA complaint over Armenian fans' provocation at Champions League match PHOTO

The Azerbaijan Football Federations Association (AFFA) has lodged an official complaint with UEFA after a banner linked to the former separatist entity in Karabakh was displayed by home supporters during a UEFA Champions League second qualifying round match in Armenia.

The incident occurred during Wednesday's (July 22) first-leg fixture between Ararat-Armenia and Ireland's Shamrock Rovers, which ended in a 2-0 victory for the hosts, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

According to Azerbaijani media outlet Oxu.Az, the banner was displayed in the home section of the stadium. The outlet said it referred to the former separatist entity established by ethnic Armenians in Karabakh, which was never internationally recognised and was dissolved after Azerbaijan regained full control of the region.

Responding to the incident, AFFA confirmed that it had already taken the matter to European football's governing body.

"We are aware of the incident. An official complaint has already been submitted to UEFA regarding the matter," AFFA press service head Murad Akhundov said.