DFB-Pokal: 35 Police Officers Injured at Derby
Severe Riots in Germany – Several Individuals Arrested
The DFB-Pokal derby between SV Waldhof Mannheim and 1. FC Kaiserslautern was overshadowed by severe riots. According to police, 35 officers were injured and several football fans were temporarily arrested. In total, 85 people required medical attention, eight of whom were taken to a hospital.
35 Police Officers Injured
The sold-out Carl-Benz-Stadion in Mannheim hosted approximately 23,500 spectators, including about 3,500 away fans. Around 1,400 security personnel were deployed. Pyrotechnics were repeatedly used during the match.
After a goalless 90 minutes, the situation escalated. Following a scuffle among players, FCK supporters allegedly fired fireworks into the seating area. Mannheim fans then stormed the pitch. Police forces, including mounted officers, had to intervene.
Police reported that 33 federal police officers and two officers from Baden-Württemberg were injured. The officers' injuries were classified as minor. There were also injuries among the fans.
Match Suspension Threatened
The riots were so severe that a suspension of the match was threatened at one point. The start of extra time was delayed by about 35 minutes. The game was able to resume after the interruption.
In terms of sport, 1. FC Kaiserslautern ultimately won 1-0 after extra time. Ibrahim Kanaté scored the decisive goal in the 120th minute, sending the second-division team into the second round of the DFB-Pokal.
Investigations Against Several Individuals
Police have launched investigations into various offenses. These include insult, bodily harm, property damage, public disorder, assaults on police officers, and violations of the Explosives Act.
After the match, a fire in the away fan block also had to be extinguished. Police are now evaluating the events and potential video recordings. Investigations are ongoing against several individuals.
DFB Announces Review
The German Football Association (Deutscher Fussball-Bund) also intends to review the incidents. Both clubs must expect consequences. What specific sporting sanctions will be imposed remains currently open.
The Southwest derby has been considered a particularly volatile encounter for years. The riots in Mannheim are likely to reignite discussions about security, pyrotechnics, and violence in German football.
