Clashes between Genoa and Sampdoria supporters. A few hours before the Coppa Italia Lanterna derby, scheduled for this evening at 9pm, the ultra groups of the two Genoese teams clashed between via del Piano and via Monticelli, less than half a kilometre from the Luigi Ferraris stadium.
An announced tension
Tensions were expected. The Police Headquarters and the Prefecture had already ordered the reinforcement of the presence of law enforcement in the area. The hope that this would discourage clashes immediately faded. On Wednesday afternoon, scuffles broke out between passionate Genoa and Sampdoria fans. Hooded men, most of them with their faces covered, lit numerous smoke bombs and began to throw objects repeatedly. From the videos circulating on the web, it appears that some of them are holding sticks and bars in their hands, ready to use them in the event of a clash.
The police and carabinieri intervened on the scene “for an attempt at contact with opposing supporters, near Ponte Serra, on the sidelines of the supporters' movement for the preparation of choreographies and banners inside the stadium”, reported the Genoa police headquarters. The police reportedly intervened, pushing back the two groups and avoiding any contact. The supporters immediately dispersed. However, the alert for clashes remains high. A patrol by a helicopter capable of taking night photos is also planned for this evening.
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