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Chelsea Hooligans Run Riot in Poland As Police Fire Canons
Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images

Violent clashes erupted in Wroclaw, Poland, as Chelsea and Real Betis hooligans collided before the UEFA Conference League final. Polish police unleashed water cannons and tear gas, arresting 28 people. The chaos unfolded in the city’s main square, overshadowing a historic match.

On Tuesday evening, tensions flared in Wroclaw’s vibrant market square. Social media footage captured fans hurling chairs, bottles, and flares. Police, outnumbered, formed human barriers to separate the rival groups.

By today, the unrest escalated, prompting drastic measures. A blue police van fired water cannons at Chelsea protagonists, flattening several as they scattered. Tear gas clouded the air, stinging fans and bystanders alike.

Cannons Flatten Chelsea 'Fans' in Poland

Wroclaw police confirmed 28 arrests, with four identified as Spanish citizens, likely Real Betis fans. “We’re working to identify others involved,” said spokesperson Wojciech Jablonski to AFP. The operation involved hundreds of officers, some undercover, patrolling the city.

The violence marred the buildup to a high-stakes final. Chelsea aim to become the first club to win all four major UEFA trophies. Real Betis, chasing their first European title, face a formidable opponent.

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Local media described the aftermath as a “battlefield.” Restaurants began cleanup at 4:30 a.m., with shattered glass littering the square. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk condemned the violence, vowing “zero tolerance” on X.

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Police had intervened the previous day, using tear gas to quell earlier skirmishes. Videos showed riot police, equipped with helmets and shields, pushing back Chelsea fans. Supporters chanted defiantly as officers advanced.

Despite the chaos, Wroclaw’s police assured public safety. “Our presence ensures residents and true fans feel secure,” their statement read. They emphasized ongoing efforts to track down additional culprits.

The clashes echo recent fan violence, like the Manchester United-Tottenham scuffles in Bilbao. UEFA has not yet issued sanctions, but scrutiny is likely. Both clubs remain focused on the match ahead.

Chelsea’s young squad, led by Enzo Maresca, seeks to cement their European legacy. Real Betis, underdogs with passionate support, hope to upset the Blues. The final promises intensity, both on and off the pitch.

Wroclaw’s Stadion Wrocław, hosting over 40,000 fans, is the stage for this historic clash. Chelsea’s unsold ticket allocation suggests fewer traveling supporters than Betis. Yet, their ambition to make history remains undeterred.

The city, still reeling from the violence, braces for the match. Police remain vigilant, determined to prevent further unrest. For fans, the focus shifts to glory, not chaos.

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This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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