Football shame in Malaga as fans cause havoc

Around 2,000 Portuguese fans followed their team to Malaga to support them in the quarter finals.

However, despite the controls by the authorities the Oporto followers left their mark on the city during their visit. Although the day started normally, around 300 fans were involved in a series of incidents prior to the match requiring police intervention.

The fans caused incidents in the Guadalmar area and in the centre of the city but most of the altercations were in the calle Pacifico where the fans had gathered. Many of the Portuguese supporters were under the influence of drink and were very violent.

The match had already been declared one of ‘high risk’ by the Anti-violence Commission.  A Police cordon was set up around the Rosaleda stadium and helicopters were also in use to avoid a repeat of incidents like those that were caused by the Anderlecht fans, that left a trail of destruction and violence.

Fans were subjected to the normal procedures as they entered the stadium, but once they were in the stadium at least two flares were seen in the stands. One hour and a half after the end of the match they were removed without further trouble.

The Oporto team, who were staying at the Vincci Posad del Patio Hotel, decided to abandon their morning walk through the streets in the centre of the city because of the cold and wet weather and according to Portuguese media, to avoid the Malaga followers gathered around the hotel. The Potuguese press made reference to the presence of Malaga fans during a training session who were shouting insults at the Oporto players.