On Thursday the Europa League match between Lyon and Besiktas witnessed crown disorder.
The fans spilled onto the pitch, delaying the start of the first leg clash between the French and Turkish side. The fans broke through the stewards on ground unto the pitch because fireworks had been set off and missiles sent from the stands of the visitors.
The fans ran for their safety, forcing the security to work at regaining order. All hands had to be on deck. Lyon President Jean-Michel Aulaswas pictured on the pitch trying to persuade fans to return to their seats.
France had labelled the match “high risk” as they pre-empted that the Turkish fans would want to make a political statement ahead of the forthcoming referendum in their country. The game between Monaco and Borussia Dortmund also witnessed delays as the bus of the Germans was attacked. The game had to be pushed back 24 hours. Monaco eventually won the match.
Almost 50,000 fans from neighbouring countries were expected for the Lyon game so twice the numbers of security officials were deployed for the match. Supporters could not enter the stadium with jerseys, flags, and scarves other than that of the team they represent.
Ahead of the game, the club officials had a glitch that ended up favouring the Turkish fans as they had one-third of the stadium’s 60,000 seater capacity. Aulas has asked the fans to come out in their numbers as he expected a strong representation from their opponents.
It was Besiktas’ first European quarter final since 2003. After blowing several chances this term, they are keen on pulling a decent result in Europe. They top their local league but they also want to go far in the continental tournament.
Lyon ended up netting twice in two minutes to win the game 2-1.