Tensions flared ahead of the UEFA Conference League final as supporters of Chelsea and Real Betis were involved in violent confrontations on the streets of Wroclaw in Poland. Shocking footage has emerged showing fans from both clubs clashing outside bars, hurling chairs and other objects, forcing police to intervene with pepper spray to restore order.
Despite a heavy police presence in Wroclaw due to the high-profile nature of the match, scuffles broke out among rival fan groups, prompting an immediate response from authorities.
Polish police issues statement on the violent clash
Polish police issued a statement following the incident, confirming that they managed to contain the violence swiftly. The statement said, “The uniformed officers reacted immediately after the incident, which resulted in no further escalation of the conflict or negative behavior.The fans scattered in different directions and currently the police officers of the criminal division are conducting activities aimed at identifying them.
The statement further said, "The number of preventive and operational police forces and their saturation is so large in places where residents and sports fans gather or move around that everyone can feel safe.
"Please immediately notify the nearby Police or City Guard patrol of any incident, or call the emergency number 112. We are at your disposal and our priority is to ensure safety - says Senior Warrant Officer Łukasz Dutkowiak.
"Foot patrols, monitoring from drones and helicopters, intensified activities on the streets and in key locations - the office enumerates and adds: - Firefighters from the Municipal Headquarters of the State Fire Service in Wrocław and rescuers are also ready to respond immediately, especially in the area of the stadium and all fan zones."
Chelsea, Betis eye silverware in Poland
Chelsea booked their place in the final after defeating Swedish outfit Djurgardens in the semi-finals, while Real Betis overcame Fiorentina, who were aiming for their third final appearance. Chelsea finished fourth in the Premier League this season, with Betis securing sixth place in La Liga.
Chelsea looked like title contenders from the start of the league phase, and Enzo Maresca's side come to Poland aiming for a unique first: win and they will become the first team to triumph in all five of UEFA's major men's senior club competitions.
Real Betis and Chelsea have faced each other four times, with Chelsea having the advantage: three wins against one victory for Real Betis.
