UEFA clears Red Star fans to attend Champions League return

NYON, Switzerland (AP) — UEFA says Red Star Belgrade has won its appeal to overturn a stadium closure for its home debut in the Champions League.

The Serbian champions had been punished by UEFA this month for persistent disorder by its fans.

Red Star, the 1991 European Cup champion, hosted its Champions League playoff in an empty stadium, and fans were also due to be barred from the club's next home European game.

Red Star advanced to the group stage for the first time in the 27-season Champions League era by rallying from two goals down to draw 2-2 at Salzburg, winning on away goals.

The UEFA appeals committee ruling was announced hours before the draw. Red Star is among the lowest-ranked teams in the fourth-seeded pot.