Excitement before the German CL game
Fans have to take off their clothes completely – trip canceled
November 27, 2024 – 5:20 p.mReading time: 2 min.
On Wednesday evening, VfB Stuttgart will face Red Star in Belgrade. Before the game, however, there were problems both at the border and in the city.
VfB Stuttgart will have to do without large parts of their fans at the Champions League away game against Red Star Belgrade. Around 2,400 supporters had originally planned to travel to the Serbian capital. When asked by the German Press Agency, the Bundesliga soccer team confirmed that fan groups had returned to Stuttgart after controls at the border with Serbia.
Several buses with VfB fans made their way to Belgrade. According to consistent media reports, there were disproportionately strict controls by the Serbian police at the border with Serbia. They are said to have been forced to strip completely naked for examinations. The organized fan scene is said to have decided not to visit the stadium.
VfB had given its supporters several safety tips in the past few days – also because some of the Red Star fans were considered to be “seeking violence and belonging to organized crime”.
Videos of street fights between supporters of both clubs were already circulating online on Wednesday afternoon. Dozens of VfB Stuttgart representatives are said to have met around 30 Serbs.
The game in Belgrade’s “Marakana” starts at 6:45 p.m. (here in the live ticker on t-online).
Things could also get heated for some Stuttgart players. Striker Ermedin Demirović expected a “disgusting” reception. For the 26-year-old, the appearance in Serbia as a Bosnian international may be particularly explosive. “I don’t know what to expect there, how the people will receive me,” he said. He will find out this evening.
How can football clubs and authorities improve the experience for fans attending away games?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Football Expert
Editor: Good evening, and welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re diving into the recent issues faced by VfB Stuttgart fans ahead of their Champions League match against Red Star Belgrade. Joining us is renowned sports analyst, Dr. Anna Weber, who specializes in sports management and fan engagement. Anna, thank you for being here.
Dr. Weber: Thank you for having me. It’s great to be here to discuss such an intriguing situation.
Editor: So, let’s get straight to it. We’ve seen reports that a significant number of Stuttgart fans had to turn back due to issues at the Serbian border. What can you tell us about the importance of fan presence in games like these?
Dr. Weber: Fan presence in football matches, especially high-stakes games like the Champions League, is crucial. It not only boosts the morale of the team but also creates an electric atmosphere that can influence the outcome of the game. Home and away matches have distinct dynamics, and having a passionate support system can turn the tide in favor of the visiting team.
Editor: It’s fascinating. Now, the report mentioned that around 2,400 fans planned to travel, but many returned home before they even crossed the border. What could have caused this, in your opinion?
Dr. Weber: Challenges at international borders can stem from various regulations, including security checks, which may be heightened for such events. It could involve both logistical issues and unexpected legal requirements set forth by Serbian authorities. Moreover, fans’ apprehensions regarding rules about entry—like the odd necessity of undressing, as mentioned in some reports—definitely dissuade them from continuing their trip.
Editor: Yes, that notion of fans having to remove clothing is quite shocking! What does this say about the current environment for traveling fans in Europe?
Dr. Weber: This illustrates a growing trend of restrictive measures that aren’t typically associated with sports. The safety and security of fans are paramount, but such invasive checkpoints can create a hostile environment rather than a welcoming one. Clubs and organizers must ensure better communication regarding what fans can expect when traveling, making the experience smoother and encouraging attendance rather than deterring it.
Editor: Absolutely. Moving forward, how can clubs and authorities work together to improve situations like this?
Dr. Weber: Open lines of communication and partnerships are essential. Authorities need to coordinate with clubs to provide fans with comprehensive information on requirements and possible hurdles ahead of time. Additionally, clubs must advocate for fair treatment of their fans, working closely with local governments abroad to ensure that traveling supporters can attend matches without excessive burdens. It’s about creating an enjoyable experience.
Editor: That’s a very proactive approach, Anna. Lastly, considering all of this, how do you think VfB Stuttgart will manage the pressure of playing in an emotionally charged atmosphere, potentially without their fans?
Dr. Weber: It’s undoubtedly a challenging scenario for any team. They will need to focus on their game plan and support each other. However, they must also draw motivation from the fans who couldn’t make it. Even without their physical presence, players know that their supporters are backing them from home, and that can drive performance.
Editor: Wise words indeed. Anna, thank you so much for your insights on this topic. It’s crucial that we discuss these matters to foster a more positive environment for football fans everywhere.
Dr. Weber: Thank you for having me. I hope for safer and more enjoyable experiences for all fans in the future.
Editor: And thank you to our audience for tuning in. We’ll continue to track this story and its implications for fans and teams alike. Until next time!