England and Netherlands fans clash in Dortmund ahead of Euro 2024 semifinal game
Five people were injured in clashes between fans of England and the Netherlands ahead of the Euro 2024semifinal game between the two teams on Wednesday, police said.
More than 100,000 Dutch soccer fans were in Dortmund - which is close to the Dutch border - before the game for a march to the stadium, as well as large numbers of England fans.
“We are aware of some reports and videos circulating of disorder in Dortmund. It appears that there have been several instances of Dutch fans attacking England fans in bars and attempting to steal flags,” the U.K. Football Policing Unit, which deals with soccer violence involving British fans and has officers in Germany for the tournament, said in a statement.
“We understand this has resulted in minor injuries to five people. We are also aware that in addition to the tens of thousands of Dutch fans there to enjoy the game, there are groups of risk supporters who have traveled to Dortmund from the Netherlands. Our officers are at the location supporting German colleagues. We would advise supporters to be aware of their surroundings and seek areas where there is a German Police presence.”