https://arab.news/ztz2b
- Trouble flared in and around Bloomfield Stadium, which is shared by Hapoel and Maccabi, ahead of the Israeli Premier League match
- Maccabi Tel Aviv fans are also being banned from attending the Nov. 6 Europa League game at Aston Villa in England, over security concerns
TEL AVIV, Israel: The Tel Aviv derby between Hapoel and Maccabi was canceled on Sunday due to “public disorder and violent riots,” Israel police said.
The Israeli Premier League match was scheduled to take place at Bloomfield Stadium, which is shared by both clubs, with Hapoel designated as the home team.
Police said 12 civilians and three police officers were injured, while nine people had been arrested, after smoke grenades and pyrotechnic devices were thrown.
“Disorderly conduct, riots, injured police officers, and damage to infrastructure — this is not a soccer game, this is a breach of order and serious violence,” police said in a statement.
The match cancelation comes as another setback for Maccabi after their supporters were barred from a Europa League match against Aston Villa next month after British police expressed concerns about potential protests outside the stadium.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has criticized the decision.