Dozens arrested after West Ham fans attacked in Prague bar
More than 30 people were detained after violence broke out ahead of the match between the Premier League team and the Italian side, Sky Sports News has been told.
A group of West Ham fans were drinking in a bar in the centre of the Czech capital when they were attacked by large numbers of men dressed in black, it is believed.
As other Hammers supporters arrived at the scene, riot police were deployed to keep the rival groups apart.
At least three people were injured in the unrest and an officer was also attacked.
There was broken glass and a burnt-out chair on the ground outside the Tek’ila Tek’ila bar following the disorder.
A West Ham fan, who did not want to be named, said “a large group” of Italian supporters attacked the bar in Rytirska Street.
“About eight Italians walked past, swinging bands and chains,” he said.
“Five minutes later there was a big group that come down the road and attacked us,” he added.
The fan also said: “Three of our mates [were injured]. They’ve gone to hospital.” He said one of his friends was “quite badly” hurt with a “massive cut” on his head, adding two other people had also been wounded.
‘Flares and firecrackers thrown’
Another witness claimed the Italian fans had “chains and belt buckles” and had thrown flares and firecrackers.
The 17-year-old said: “We were all standing here, just having a glass. And they all come around the corner, trying to give it large. We done nothing wrong. They come here, try giving it, and then they ran down the road.”
A translation of a Czech police tweet said: “Italy fans attacked West Ham fans in a bar in Rytirska Street, injuring three. One policeman was also attacked… and we are currently investigating the whole incident.”
The statement comes after videos were posted on social media appearing to show people throwing chairs at each other in Prague.
Thousands of football fans have travelled to the city for the game.
It is West Ham’s first final in Europe since 1976, and they are bidding to win their first trophy since the FA Cup 43 years ago.
