The UEFA Champions League qualifier between PAOK and Benfica was postponed following a tragic incident in Greece. On Thursday, a fan of PAOK was killed in clashes between rival supporters outside the Toumba Stadium in Thessaloniki.
The incident occurred prior to the match, which was due to kick off at 8:00 PM local time. Reports suggest that the fan was stabbed in the chest during a fight between PAOK and Benfica supporters. The fan was rushed to the hospital, but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.
In response to the tragedy, UEFA has decided to postpone the match until further notice. UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin released a statement expressing his condolences to the family of the deceased fan and condemning the violence. He also stated that UEFA will investigate the incident and take appropriate action.
This is not the first time that violence has broken out between rival supporters in Greece. In recent years, there have been several incidents of violence between fans of different teams. This latest tragedy is a stark reminder of the need for greater security measures at football matches.
The tragedy has also sparked a debate about fan culture in Greece. Many have argued that the government needs to do more to tackle the problem of hooliganism. Others have suggested that clubs should take more responsibility for their fans’ behavior.
The death of the PAOK fan is a tragedy that has shocked the football world. UEFA has taken the right decision in postponing the match and sending a strong message that violence will not be tolerated. It is now up to the authorities in Greece to take action and ensure that such tragedies never happen again.
