Belgian cup final marred by violent fan riots in Brussels
Before the final of the Belgian Cup in Brussels, there were riots between fans of Club Brugge and Anderlecht. The police intervened and 10 people were arrested. Several individuals were injured.
Main information
- Riots broke out before the final of the Belgian Cup in Brussels.
- The police arrested 10 people and several were injured.
- Clashes occurred in various parts of the city, including at Ribaucourt station.
In Brussels, prior to the Belgian Cup final, serious riots erupted between fans of Club Brugge and Anderlecht. The initial incidents took place near Central Station, where a direct confrontation between the rival groups nearly happened.
The police intervened on Rue Duquesnoy to prevent clashes. Officers were attacked with fireworks, which forced them to use measures of force. As a consequence of the riots, two people were injured and approximately ten arrests were made.
Riots in Brussels after the match: 10 people arrested
Fans from Bruges, on their way to the stadium, encountered local youths in the port district, causing tensions to escalate. Further clashes occurred at Ribaucourt station, resulting in injuries to several individuals.
Police spokesperson Ilse Van de Keere confirmed that fireworks were used during the riots, leading to serious injuries to one person. Videos on social media depicted violent clashes and individuals lying on the ground. Many men moved through the streets of Brussels with their faces covered.
Despite the riots, the Belgian Cup final proceeded as planned. Club Brugge emerged victorious over Anderlecht with a score of 2:1. Michał Skoras, a player for Club Brugge, spent the entire match on the substitutes' bench.