The match ‘The Classic’ between Ajax and Feyenoord in the Johan Cruijff Arena was canceled after fans set off flares.
What happened?
The match was suspended because projectiles were thrown from the stands, making it impossible to continue the match due to the threat it posed to the players’ safety. After a short delay it was decided to continue, but a second suspension was necessary as flares continued to fall on the pitch.
The bigger picture
Ajax were 3-0 behind their bitter rivals when the match was abandoned, with Santiago Giménez scoring a brace before Igor Paixao also made an appearance in the first half. The home fans then took matters into their own hands in an attempt to cause chaos.
Did you know?
Ajax is likely to run into problems with Dutch football authorities for failing to control the actions of fans in the stands. The KNVB will impose the penalties as soon as their severity has been determined. The people of Amsterdam will also be questioned about how a group of hooligans were allowed to enter the entrance to the stadium, which led to the firing of tear gas and the deployment of riot police.
What’s next?
Ajax were in 13th place in the Eredivisie prior to the classic after a disappointing start to the 2023/24 season, gaining just five points, while current champions Feyenoord are hot on the heels of PSV at the top of the table.
Source: Goal