NYON AP:

The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has fined Malmo €100,000 ($110,000) for a sub-standard playing surface in the Champions League. UEFA said its disciplinary panel cited "the poor condition of the pitch at the club's three home group stage matches".

Juventus players raised concerns about the Swedbank Stadium turf before their 2-0 win on November 26.

The match was played three weeks after the spring-to-autumn Swedish season ended. UEFA says half of Malmo's fine is deferred for a two-year probationary period.

Malmo earned almost €10 million (US$11 million) in UEFA prize money for placing last in a group which included Atletico Madrid and Olympiakos. The club will get more from broadcasting rights fees.

As Sweden's league winner in 2014, Malmo returns to the Champions League qualifying rounds in July.