Overview
- Police ordered the Hapoel–Maccabi derby at Bloomfield Stadium abandoned before kickoff after rival supporters launched pyrotechnics and rockets, filling the ground with smoke and forcing players off the field.
- Authorities reported roughly 42 injuries, including five police officers, and about 40 arrests, with several suspects expected to appear before a judge.
- Hapoel Tel Aviv accused the police of excessive force and a premature decision to call off the match, while officers described the scenes as serious public disorder.
- Local safety advisers and West Midlands Police designated Aston Villa vs. Maccabi a high‑risk fixture due to expected protests; Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized the initial away‑fan ban, and UEFA pointed to local authority control.
- Maccabi Tel Aviv said it will not distribute any away tickets for Villa Park even if restrictions are eased, citing a “toxic” climate and fan safety concerns, and arguing its wider supporter base is being unfairly maligned.