Benfica-OM: we explain the imbroglio surrounding the movement of Marseille supporters to Lisbon
The Europa League quarter-final between Olympique Marseille and Benfica could take place without traveling fans. A few hours before the first leg this Thursday, April 11 in Lisbon, uncertainty still reigns over the presence or not of OM fans at the Estadio de la Luz. Their tickets were canceled by the Lisbon club on Tuesday, angering the Marseille club. Explanations.
The story began on April 5: the Bouches-du-Rhône prefecture issued an order to prohibit Lisbon fans from entering the stadium and its surroundings for security reasons during the return match on April 18. . “Certain groups of Benfica Lisbon supporters frequently adopt violent behavior during their team’s European trips. could we read in the decree, according to France Bleu Provence.
Three supporters were arrested following clashes around the match between Benfica and Real Sociedad on November 8, 2023. In response, the Portuguese club decided on Tuesday to deactivate the Marseille supporters’ seats for the first leg, Thursday April 11.
In a press release published Tuesday evening, OM took note of the decision, but still hoped for a positive outcome. “The club considers that a favorable outcome is still possible and continues, as has been the case for several days, to do everything possible in the interest of its supporters so that they attend Thursday’s meeting in Lisbon. […] OM will continue their efforts until they have won the case for their supporters whose behavior has been exemplary this season in the European Cup.”hoped the club.
The next day, Pablo Longoria also stepped up to the plate, specifying that his presence would not be assured in Lisbon if his supporters are blocked at the entrance to the stadium. “I cannot accept that our supporters, who have made enormous sacrifices to come to Portugal, cannot access the visitors’ stand to attend a match that we are all looking forward to in this very difficult season. […] And if we had to come to that, I would not attend tomorrow’s meeting out of solidarity with our supporters but also in opposition to the unfair nature of this situation in which everyone must assume their responsibilities.” explained the president of OM on Wednesday in a press release.
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