THE ENGLISH DISEASE

Last updated : 28 March 2005 By editor

The Guardian reports:

‘Violence before, during and after Germany's friendly victory in Slovenia on Saturday left the 2006 World Cup hosts fearing a revival of hooliganism before next year's finals. Around 200-250 Germans vandalised Celje city centre before kick-off, smashing windows of cars and restaurants while shouting racist slogans.


‘At the ground they threw flares on to the pitch and ripped out seats. Around £9,000 of damage was caused, according to the Slovenian media.

‘"We're very, very sorry. We are ashamed," said Germany's coach Jürgen Klinsmann. "It was absolutely senseless and dangerous. It gave a very, very bad picture of us as host of the 2006 World Cup. It's a shame that a few rioters were able to use an international match as a platform for their mindless and dangerous actions."

‘The DFB president Gerhard Mayer-Vorfelder, who was attacked as he left the stadium, added: "It's our shame. It's a very, very sad matter."’


And again in the Guardian:

‘Violence reared its ugly head again in Africa's World Cup qualifying campaign when a riot brought a premature end to Mali's home match with Togo in Bamako on Sunday.


The game was abandoned amid chaotic scenes as thousands of spectators invaded the pitch after Togo went 2-1 ahead in the 90th minute to keep up with the leaders in Group One.

‘Police used tear gas and batons to disperse the rowdy crowd as fans poured into the streets surrounding the stadium, with cars attacked and reports of several people injured.’