Canada women handed SIX-POINT deduction for SpyGate scandal… but could still qualify for Olympic knockout stages

CANADA’s women’s football team has been handed a SIX-POINT deduction amidst an alleged drone spying scandal.

But the Olympic champions could still qualify for the knockout stages.

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But Fifa banned three coaches for one year each on Saturday.

The stunning swath of punishments included a £200,000 fine for the Canadian Soccer Association (CSA), who were held responsible for not ensuring its staff complied with tournament rules.

Beverly Priestman, Joseph Lombardi and Jasmine Mander are suspended from taking part in any football-related activity for a period of one year.

Manager Priestman- who guided Canada to the Olympic title in Tokyo 2020- was suspended by The Canadian Olympic Committee on Thursday.

The coaches were accused of using drones to spy on opponent New Zealand’s practices before their opening game last Wednesday.

Fifa fast-tracked its own disciplinary process by asking its appeals judges to handle the case.

Judges found Priestman and her two assistants “were each found responsible for offensive behaviour and violation of the principles of fair play and art.”

CSA and its officials have been notified of the terms of the committee’s decision today.

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The decision remains subject to a potential appeal before the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Canada’s Group A game against New Zealand was allowed to go ahead, with the Olympic champions running out 2-1 winners.

The team will now be led by assistant coach, Andy Spence.