A report from the UK Football Policing Unit revealed that five individuals sustained injuries during clashes between England and Netherlands supporters in Dortmund prior to the Euro 2024 semifinal match. Disturbing videos on social media depict Dutch fans assaulting English fans and hurling stools outside a bar in the German city a few hours before the game.
The UK Football Policing Unit issued a statement addressing the incidents in Dortmund, stating, “We are aware of reports and videos circulating of disorder in Dortmund. There have been multiple accounts of Dutch fans targeting English fans in bars and trying to seize flags, resulting in minor injuries to five individuals.”
The statement further highlighted the presence of certain risk supporter groups from the Netherlands who traveled to Dortmund for the match, amidst the vast number of Dutch fans who arrived to support their team. In response to the escalating tensions, law enforcement officers from the UK are providing assistance to their German counterparts in Dortmund.
In light of the confrontations between rival fans, the UK Football Policing Unit advised all supporters to remain vigilant of their surroundings and identify areas with a visible German Police presence to ensure their safety during the event.
With over 100,000 Netherlands fans flooding Dortmund for the semifinal at Signal Iduna Park, a stadium with a 60,440 capacity, the atmosphere was charged with anticipation. As England aimed to secure a spot in a major tournament final away from home soil, Netherlands sought to replicate their Euro ’88 victory as their sole triumph in international competitions.
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