Reports have emerged of violent clashes between England and Netherlands fans in Dortmund prior to the highly anticipated Euro 2024 semifinal. According to the UK Football Policing Unit, five individuals have sustained injuries as a result of the altercations. A video circulating on social media purportedly captures Dutch supporters assaulting England fans and hurling stools outside a bar in the German city just hours before the match kickoff.
Official Statement
A spokesperson for the UK Football Policing Unit issued a statement addressing the incidents, emphasizing the instances of Dutch fans targeting England supporters in bars and attempting to seize flags. The clash led to minor injuries for five individuals involved. It was acknowledged that while a significant number of Dutch fans were present to enjoy the game, there were also groups of high-risk supporters who had traveled to Dortmund from the Netherlands. The authorities emphasized the importance of vigilance among supporters and recommended seeking areas where German Police presence was visible.
Large Fan Presence
The magnitude of the situation was evident by the estimated attendance of over 100,000 Netherlands fans in Dortmund for the semifinal match at Signal Iduna Park, a stadium with a capacity of 60,440. England’s team is striving to secure their first major tournament final outside of Wembley Stadium, while the Netherlands have previously claimed the Euro trophy in 1988.
The violent clashes between England and Netherlands fans serve as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of hooliganism in football. Despite the majority of fans attending to support their respective teams in a peaceful manner, the actions of a few individuals have marred the event and resulted in injuries. It is crucial for authorities and supporters alike to prioritize safety and respect during such high-profile games to prevent further incidents of violence and ensure a positive experience for all involved.
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