WATCH: Ajax fans wreak havoc at Johan Cryuff Arena as the Dutch giants went 3-0 down against arch-rival Feyenoord at halftime
Ajax supporters could not accept their club's rough patch causing riots to break out.
Johan Cruyff Arena in flares (Source: FrenchFootballnews)
Violence marred the Johan Cryuff Arena during the Ajax vs Feyenoord clash in the Eredivisie. The defending champions were giving Ajax a taste of their own medicine, which was too harsh for the fans to accept. The visitors led the game by 3-0 at 55 minutes when distraught home fans threw flares on the pitch. De Klassieker was halted just a minute later as the fireworks posed a severe threat to the players.
Despite repeated warnings from the club officials against using fireworks and other explosive materials, fans ignored the safety rules. With a coveted history, Ajax would be one of the last clubs in the world expecting to face such uncouth behavior from their supporters. However, missing out on the Champions League for the first time in 13 years and finishing third in the league has already landed them in hot waters with the ultras.
The Dutch giants do not look so giant right now as they sit in 13th place in the League this season. Having managed just one win this season, fans could not control their anger anymore. Now, such a horrific run of events marks a low point in the club’s legacy. Their performance seems to have boiled their supporter’s patience limit as chaos and destruction occurred at the venue.
Things got so out of hand that the police had to use tear gas and call riot police to get it under control. Ajax will likely face scrutiny and punishments for poor organization in a prominent fixture by Dutch football. The fiasco led to the match being suspended, as it left the fans, clubs, and football followers all around the world in disappointment.
The rivalry which makes the De Klassieker so big
The Ajax-Feyenoord rivalry, known as “De Klassieker,” is not just a rivalry between two football clubs. It is a feud! This rivalry transcends sports, embodying ideological, political, and regional differences between Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Traditionally, Ajax represents stylish football and success with 33 Eredivisie titles and three European Cup wins.
In contrast, Feyenoord symbolizes hard work with 15 domestic titles and one European Cup victory. These city distinctions add depth to the rivalry, making it a significant Dutch football event. In the 2017/18 season, both clubs faced changes and challenges. Ajax, known for attacking flair and youth development, saw managerial shifts, causing off-field turmoil.
Feyenoord struggled after losing key players and couldn’t replicate their title-winning form. Despite this, they chase PSV in the Eredivisie. The upcoming De Klassieker promises intrigue, marking a significant moment for Ajax and Feyenoord as they blend tradition and innovation to pursue success.
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Syed Talib Haider
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