1. FC Union Berlin has won its premiere in the Europa League – but it was overshadowed by fan riots. The game was suspended for almost half an hour.
1. FC Union Berlin’s Europa League game at Malmö FF has been overshadowed by fan riots. According to the volume, a heavy firecracker exploded in front of the guest fans’ block after around 55 minutes. It was initially unclear who fired the firecrackers and pyros. TV footage also showed security forces taking fans from other areas out of the stadium.
Referee Meler warned against abandoning the game
Referee Halil Umut Meler from Turkey sent both teams into the dressing room. At that point it was 0-0. The two teams only got back on the pitch after around 25 minutes. The announcement made it clear that the game would be stopped immediately in the event of the next incident. The visitors from Berlin were outnumbered after a red card in the 45th minute against Andras Schäfer.
Security forces stationed themselves in front of the block of guest fans, some of whom wore storm masks. Police lined up to the side of the home team’s supporters. A little more than 1000 Union fans are said to have traveled to Malmö. Coach Urs Fischer followed what was happening on the 3rd day of the Europa League with obvious incomprehension.
Union Berlin brings first victory
In the 68th minute, however, the Berliners scored their first goal in the competition. They took the lead over time and celebrated their first Europa League win at record Swedish champions Malmö FF without a point. Sheraldo Becker scored the goal to make it 1-0 outnumbered.
Source: Stern
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
