Rome derby chaos: 300 fans detained, car set ablaze
Before the match between AS Roma and Lazio, dangerous incidents occurred. The police detained about 300 armed fans from both teams, who were heading for an armed confrontation. Despite the intervention by law enforcement, a car was set on fire on the streets of Rome.
The main event of the shortened Italian league round was the Derby della Capitale, hosted by AS Roma. The Giallorossi aimed to defend their dominance in the eternal city against local rivals Lazio.
Italian media, including "La Gazzetta dello Sport," reported that a few hours before the Rome derby, the police detained two groups of masked and armed fans of AS Roma and Lazio. The hooligans were stopped at Piazzale Ponte Milvio, near Stadio Olimpico, where the match was to take place. Approximately 600 people had gathered there.
According to "Fakt," dangerous items were found on the detainees: kitchen knives, rods, smoke bombs, chains, and wooden and baseball bats.
Furthermore, a screwdriver was found on one of the fans already at the stadium. The police confiscated hidden dangerous items at the stadium. It has not yet been announced how many people were detained.
Despite the efficient intervention of the police, incidents could not be completely avoided. As a result of the riots, one car was burned.
AS Roma’s next opponent will be another cup contender, Bologna FC. Last season, the Rossoblu denied the Romans a Champions League spot, which was a significant setback. Lazio will again play at Stadio Olimpico, this time as hosts, and will face the newcomer from Como.
