Fan violence erupts at Panathinaikos friendly, 74 arrested

Shocking events occurred before the friendly match between Panathinaikos Athens and AEK Larnaca in Greece. Fans fought among themselves and others; one person was even shot, and another was most likely stabbed. A total of 74 people were arrested.

We have already become accustomed to the behaviour of Greek fans. After all, we have often heard about scandals involving fans from this country. Now it turns out that they have put on a "show" again.

Greek clubs are preparing for the new season, hence the recent friendly match between Panathinaikos Athens and AEK Larnaca (3:1).

This match, however, would have gone unmentioned in many foreign media outlets, including Canada. However, the pre-match events made it quite different.

Greek media have reported a fight only among Panathinaikos fans, not both teams' supporters. The conflict was so intense that, at one point, shots were even fired.

The police arrested a total of 74 people, five of whom were minors. Additionally, the youngest participant in the incident was only 13 years old. However, the reasons for the conflict are unknown.

Due to the brawl, many fans of the Athens club were injured, mainly two individuals. A 38-year-old was shot with a firearm, while a 22-year-old was most likely stabbed.

"A total of 74 people were arrested in the case, with each case file containing charges of criminal organization, disturbing the peace, attempted murder, dangerous bodily harm, damage to foreign property, possession of weapons, flares, drugs, and violation of sports law," reads the statement from the Greek police, as quoted by the Greek portal gazzetta.gr.