Fans of Turkey and Georgia are brawling ahead of their Euro 2024 fixture
A fight broke out between both sets of Turkey and Georgia fans inside Borussia Dortmund’s Westfalenstadion ahead of their upcoming Euro 2024 match.
Prior to the game, Georgia boss Willy Sagnol opened up on how important it was for his side to be playing in their first ever major international tournament.
He told a press conference: “For some players after the March play-offs it has been a bit difficult to get back into their daily routine because they have lots of emotions and they had a feeling they were living a dream but the dream has to stop at some point and they have to focus again.
The rain is pouring down at the moment. (PA)
“It’s something we talked about with the players at the start of the camp. At the beginning of the camp it was difficult but now the players are ready for the competition and focus on their performance and their discipline.”
However, just before kick off, footage on social media showed a brawl taking place in one corner of the stadium, as supporters were seen throwing objects at one another amid the pouring rain.
Despite the altercations, police were able to break it up and kick off took place as scheduled at 5.00pm (UK time).
Meanwhile, Turkey manager Vincenzo Montella said before the football match: “I have studied Georgia very well, it’s a very tough team because they can concede ball possession but they are great in turnovers and are very physical.
“It’s a tough match and I think we will need to be patient, avoid losing ball organisation and to hit at the right moments so I have a lot of respect for this team.
“We need to care about the team, have a responsibility because we represent an important country.”
It’s Georgia’s first ever major international tournament. (Charlotte Wilson/Offside/Offside via Getty Images)
BBC Sport pundit Jermaine Jenas said on TV: “Turkey come into the game huge favourites but with that star man up front for Georgia, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, you’ve just got to get him the ball and you’ve got every chance.”
Brentford manager Thomas Frank also suggested to keep a look out for Turkey youngster Arda Guler.
“Arda Guler is such a talented player. Unbelievably intelligent and a fantastic left foot,” he said.
“He sees things quickly and it’s very difficult to do and execute perfectly weighted passes.
“He links up well, he can slide a pass in and he can also score goals.
“He’s talented. Really excited about him and to see him in this tournament. I think he will do well and have glimpses of high class.
“But he is 19 years old and he hasn’t played a full season.”