In terms of play, Sturm’s heroic 2-2 draw against Atalanta Bergamo was a European Cup highlight. But there were some arguments between the fan groups surrounding the match. Two police officers were also injured when bottles were thrown.
It was clear in advance that the Europa League match between Sturm Graz and Atalanta Bergamo on the national holiday would be demanding for the police. About 800 Italian fans, including some feared “Ultras”, made their way to Styria. The Herrengasse was flooded with police and police cars at the beginning of the afternoon. An escalation could be prevented, but there were arguments.
At lunch we started at Färberplatz and Mehlplatz, right in the city center. A restaurant was also damaged, police confirmed. A video on Instagram shows numerous masked fans.
Bottle attack on police officers
In the afternoon, Bergamo supporters marched through the city center and down Conrad-von-Hötzendorf-Straße to the stadium. There, violent storm fans wanted to attack the so-called Corteo of the Italians, but were pushed back by the police. Two police officers were injured when bottles were thrown – which fansite they came from has yet to be determined, spokesman Fritz Grundnig said. It is hoped that video assessments will provide insights.
Attacks in the city center
Even after the match there was no silence. Throughout the night there were more “typical discussions for the scene” in the city center, which were also exceptionally well attended thanks to the Klanglicht Festival, Grundnig said. These were largely verbal, but there were also physical attacks. However, no serious injuries have been reported.
Death for the stadium
Tragically, there was a death in front of the stadium before the match. One person collapsed and died due to a medical emergency. It is said that it was a passerby and not a match attendee.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
