Nine supporters of Spanish team Real Sociedad were injured, including one in critical condition, following a violent attack by Lazio Ultras in Rome on Wednesday evening in the Monti district, a popular area in the city center. The attack happened on the eve of the Europa League match between Lazio and Real Sociedad at the Stadio Olimpico.
Around 70 Spanish fans were reportedly ambushed by a group of 80 masked Ultras dressed in black, who used knives, hammers, iron bars, firecrackers, and smoke bombs during the assault, Reuters reported.
Some victims sustained stab wounds, while others were injured by blunt objects used in the attack.
Police, alerted by residents of the area, confirmed that the attackers were supporters of the Lazio football club.
Law enforcement has made several arrests and is reviewing surveillance footage from the Monti district to identify additional suspects and determine if the attack was premeditated.
The incident has cast a shadow over Thursday night’s Europa League fixture, raising concerns about safety and security surrounding high-stakes matches in the Italian capital. Investigations are ongoing.