Soccer-Tel Aviv derby called off after violent riots, Israel Police says

Oct 20 (Reuters) – The Tel Aviv derby between Hapoel and Maccabi was cancelled on Sunday due to "public disorder and violent riots", Israel Police said. The Israeli Premier League match was scheduled to take place at Bloomfield Stadium, which is shared by both clubs, with Hapoel designated as the home team. Police said 12 civilians and three police officers were injured, while nine people had been arrested, after smoke grenades and pyrotechnic devices were thrown. "Disorderly conduct, riots, injured police officers, and damage to infrastructure – this is not a soccer game, this is a breach of order and serious violence," police said in a statement. The match cancellation comes as another setback for Maccabi after their supporters were barred from a Europa League match against Aston Villa next month after British police expressed concerns about potential protests outside the stadium. (Reporting by Pearl Josephine Nazare in Bengaluru; Editing by Peter Rutherford)

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