According to BBC, German authorities are worried about potential threats to disrupt the opening match of the group stage of the 2024 European Football Championship between the national teams of Serbia and England.
Reports state that law enforcement authorities are alarmed by the actions of Balkan ultras who could infiltrate the Veltins-Arena stadium along with other fans. It is anticipated that around 500 supporters of the Serbian national team may mix with the Three Lions fans, possibly leading to clashes among them.
For safety measures, only low-alcohol beer will be available at the stadium, and fans of the respective teams will be kept segregated. Moreover, a massive security operation will have around a thousand police officers on duty.
Dragan Stojkovic's "Eagles" and Gareth Southgate's "Three Lions" are rivals in Group C of Euro 2024. Denmark and Slovenia are also part of this group. The face-off between the Serbians and English will take place on June 16 in Gelsenkirchen at 22:00 GMT+3.
On June 13, Serbian national team fans criticized the players for ignoring the fans, particularly children who came to Germany to support the Balkan team.
For more information read our EURO 2024 Guide!