The Tel Aviv football derby between Hapoel and Maccabi has been cancelled after “violent riots” saw nine people arrested, Israeli police said.The match had been due to take place on Sunday night at Bloomfield Stadium, a venue shared by both clubs.
A statement from Israeli police said the game was called off “following disturbances and risks to human life”.It added: “During the violence and disturbances inside the stadium, 13 civilians were injured by pyrotechnic devices, some of whom were evacuated for medical treatment.”In addition, three police officers were injured by pyrotechnic devices thrown directly at them.”These are very serious incidents that posed a real danger to the lives of police officers and civilians.”
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Football derby cancelled after fan disorder
The force said further arrests are expected.”Violence and throwing objects at sports venues constitute criminal, unacceptable, dangerous and reprehensible behaviour,” the statement continued.A Maccabi statement read: “Following the police’s decision, it was determined that the Tel Aviv derby will not take place tonight.”Footage shared by the police shows projectiles and flares being thrown onto the pitch, as well as unrest outside the stadium and arrests being made.The news comes as Maccabi supporters have been told they are not allowed to attend November’s Europa League game against Aston Villa in Birmingham next month after a decision by Birmingham’s Safety Advisory Group (SAG).
The group – made up of local stakeholders, including representatives from the council, police and event organisers – said the decision was due to a high risk of violence based on “current intelligence and previous incidents”.The government says it is exploring what “additional resources and support are required” to allow “all fans” to attend the match.