UEFA have hit out at football clubs carrying out animal slaughter following a plea from animal rights group PETA.
The issue came to light when Shakhter Karagandy sacrificed a sheep ahead of their 2-0 victory over Celtic in the Champions League qualifier last week.
Following PETA's call to ban the ritual, UEFA president Michel Platini has written to Karagandy condemning their actions.
"We're very grateful for UEFA's swift and firm action condemning such cruel and archaic practices," said PETA's Mimi Bekhechi. "UEFA has sent a clear message that there is absolutely nothing sporting about violence towards animals."
The European governing body have threatened disciplinary action if Karagandy commit a similar act in the future.
