Two arrests have been made following clashes between Crystal Palace and Rayo Vallecano fans in Leipzig. The clashes occurred ahead of the Conference League final between the two sides. Thousands of fans have travelled to Leipzig for the match on Wednesday.
Arrests and Dispersal Orders in Leipzig
Saxon State Police confirmed the arrests after videos appeared online showing the rival fans clashing on Tuesday. All individuals involved in the disturbance were ordered to leave the area. Two officers sustained minor injuries during the clashes with both sets of fans; one from the Federal Police and one from the State Police.
According to a statement from Saxon State Police, around 300 Rayo Vallecano fans, considered to be at high risk of hooliganism, were gathered in the city centre at approximately 20:00 (19:00 BST). Police say clashes “suddenly broke out” with Palace fans sat on the outdoor terraces of both Leo’s Brasserie and Dhillons.
“Bottles, beer glasses, and pub furniture were thrown at each other. Physical altercations also occurred,” added the police statement. Officers on the scene intervened and separated the two groups of fans. They checked the identities of more than 300 people and issued dispersal orders.
Police Separate Known Troublemakers
Police say 60 Crystal Palace fans classified as “known troublemakers” were ordered to leave Leipzig city centre on Tuesday evening. Known troublemakers from Crystal Palace moved to the area of the Penguin Ice Bar and approximately 60 individuals provoked passing Spanish fans. These individuals were then surrounded by federal police.
The police operation concluded at approximately 03:15 on Wednesday morning, with more than 320 fans involved.
Fan Fest Remained Peaceful
Local police say the ‘fan fest’ in the market area of Leipzig remained peaceful throughout. About 2,000 fans from both clubs were present at the fan fest.
Crystal Palace and Rayo Vallecano are taking part in their first European final. They face each other on Wednesday (20:00 BST).