ROME: The Italian Cup final between Fiorentina and Napoli was delayed yesterday following pre-match shootings, with reports suggesting four men had been injured, one seriously.
Over 30,000 fans from both clubs were estimated to have travelled to the capital for the final at Rome’s Olympic Stadium.
However several reports, including one from Gazzetta dello Sport, suggested the clashes were caused by fans of Roma fighting with those of Napoli.
Gazzetta’s website report said four men had been injured, one of whom was a plain clothes policeman. Earlier, domestic news agency ANSA reported that three supporters had suffered gunshot wounds in a violent prelude to the final.
“These incidents are simply unacceptable,” said Maurizio Beretta, the president of Lega Serie A which also organises the Cup competition.
“We appeal to the fans who are here for the final to treat it as it should be -- an evening of sport and football and not one that should give rise to episodes of violence.”AFP
