NICOSIA, Sept 16 (Askume) – Cyprus authorities on Monday accused the country’s football federation of ignoring red flags when a Serie A soccer match saw huge upsets on Sunday night.
The match between long-time city rivals Apollon and AEL Limassol was called off after officials said they were unable to monitor the match. At least four people were injured in clashes inside and outside Limassol’s Alfamega stadium.
The incident occurred less than a month into the new season, with authorities reluctantly easing restrictions on away fans after last year’s season was marred by violence .
Police said dozens of AEL supporters stormed the venue on Sunday, ignored security checks and used repellent spray on law enforcement officers. When the game was stopped, flares and torches were thrown from the Apollo Stand.
Clashes between spectators and police continued outside the football stadium.
In a strongly worded statement, Cyprus’ Justice Ministry accused football’s governing body, the Cyprus Football Association, of ignoring the need for additional security measures.
The Justice Ministry said now was the “best time” for the Cyprus Football Association to start enforcing the law. The football body condemned the violence and said it would hold a meeting on Friday to wait for a report on the incident before taking further action.
Police resources are already stretched thin and the match took place on the same day that fans of a third team, newly promoted Omonia 29M, held a protest march despite not being from Limassol but hoping to draw attention against themselves.
“Although the leadership of the Cyprus Football Association can resort to measures such as changing match times, banning visitors, holding matches behind closed doors or even postponing matches, they are limited to making mild suggestions to the clubs,” the ministry said.
Earlier this season, officials eased restrictions on away spectators, setting a limit of 800 fans or 10% of total capacity for high-risk matches.
According to the police, AEL was considered the visiting team during Sunday’s game but more than 800 spectators were present at the game.
