Israel's Maccabi Tel Aviv soccer team has made its return to Europe after a recent incident in the Netherlands where its fans were subjected to antisemitic attacks. The team is set to play against Turkey's Besiktas in a Europa League match in Hungary, following the relocation of the game due to security concerns.
The match, scheduled to take place at Nagyerdei Stadium in Debrecen, will be held without fans in attendance as a precautionary measure. This decision comes in the aftermath of the violent events that occurred in Amsterdam on November 7, resulting in injuries to five individuals and multiple detentions.
Maccabi Tel Aviv's head coach emphasized the team's focus on the upcoming game, despite the tensions surrounding the previous incidents. He stated that the team is determined to concentrate on football and will assess the situation during the match.
The violence in Amsterdam unfolded after pro-Palestinian demonstrators were banned from gathering outside the stadium where Maccabi was playing against Dutch team Ajax. Israeli fans reportedly engaged in anti-Arab chants, leading to confrontations with local residents after the match.
Authorities in Amsterdam described the incidents as having an antisemitic nature, reflecting the concerning rise in such behaviors. Maccabi's press officer clarified that the events were unrelated to football and expressed the team's commitment to the sport.
Prior to the match, Besiktas had raised security concerns and requested the game to be moved to a neutral venue. Hungary was chosen as the host country for the match, with the Hungarian authorities mandating that the game be held behind closed doors.
Notably, Hungary has previously hosted matches for Israel's national team due to security considerations, particularly during times of heightened tensions. Maccabi Tel Aviv conducted its final training session in Tel Aviv before departing for Hungary for the crucial Europa League fixture.
These developments underscore the importance of ensuring the safety and security of all participants and fans in sporting events, emphasizing the need for vigilance and proactive measures to prevent incidents of violence and discrimination.
