The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) has apologised for a swastika that appeared in the grass of Stadion Poljud during Croatia's Euro 2016 qualifier with Italy.
The HNS labelled the Nazi symbol "obvious sabotage and a criminal act" and urged Croatian authorities to identify and punish those responsible.
During the opening 45 minutes of Friday's match, it became apparent a swastika could be seen in Croatia's half and, despite stadium staff's best efforts at half-time, they were unable to remove the symbol.
"We apologize to all the spectators, guests from Italy and the players of both teams' because of Nazi symbols on the Poljud grass," read a statement that was posted on the HNS's website on Saturday.
"It is an obvious sabotage and criminal act that we condemn and call on the police and judicial authorities to find the culprit, who has not only disgraced Croatian football but also the country," the HNS added.
