The Tel Aviv football derby between Hapoel and Maccabi has been cancelled after “violent riots” saw nine people arrested, Israeli police said.
The match had been due to take place at Hapoel’s ground, Bloomfield Stadium, on Sunday night.
A statement from Israeli police said the game was called off “following disturbances and risks to human life”.
It added: “Dozens of smoke grenades and pyrotechnic devices were thrown, injuring 12 civilians and three police officers. Forces at the scene arrested nine suspects and detained 16 others for questioning.”
A Maccabi statement read: “Following the police’s decision, it was determined that the Tel Aviv derby will not take place tonight.”
Footage shared by the police shows projectiles and flares being thrown on to the pitch, as well as unrest outside the stadium and arrests being made.
The news comes as Maccabi supporters have been told they are not allowed to attend November’s Europa League game against Aston Villa in Birmingham next month after a decision by Birmingham’s Safety Advisory Group (SAG).
The group – made up of local stakeholders, including representatives from the council, police and event organisers – said the decision was due to a high risk of violence based on “current intelligence and previous incidents”.
The government says it is exploring what “additional resources and support are required” to allow “all fans” to attend the match.
This story originally appeared on Skynews
