A wild brawl between England and Netherlands soccer fans was caught on video just before both teams took to the field for the Euro 2024 semi-finals on Wednesday, July 10, in Dortmund, Germany.
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The epic fight started after Dutch fans attacked English fans outside one of the German town’s restaurants. It was reported that tens of thousands of Dutch fans had started their “fan walk” to the stadium.
Videos of the brawl show the Dutch fans in the orange having an exchange of harsh words with the English fans before fists started flying.
Although it was reported that the Dutch fans started the brawl, others say that it was actually the English fans who picked the fight.
“The English started a brawl in Germany,” one X user, Chay Bowes, stated. “But then realised they were outnumbered 10 to 1 by the Dutch. They then hid in a bar in true Heroic fashion.”
Officials revealed that during the England vs. Netherlands fan brawl, five people suffered minor injuries. At least one of the Dutch fans was seen being detained by riot police, who quickly arrived on the scene to break up the fight.
Along with the fist fights on the street, there was damage to the restaurant and nearby shops. One fan was caught on video throwing a TV inside the restaurant.
Leo Woeho, who witnessed the situation, shared more details. “The Dutch started it after trying to steal an England flag,” Woeho said. “There was provocation on each side and it got out of hand. Fortunately, no one was badly hurt.”
UK Football Police Speaks Out Following Viral England vs Netherlands Fan Brawl
A spokesman for the UK’s Football Police Unit released a statement about the ordeal.
“We are aware of some reports and videos circulating of disorder in Dortmund,” the spokesman stated. “It appears that there have been several instances of Dutch fans attacking England fans in bars and attempting to steal flags.”
The spokesman continued by confirming the brawl resulted in minor injuries to the five people.
“We are also aware that in addition to the tens of thousands of Dutch fans there to enjoy the game,” he noted. “There are groups of risk supporters who have traveled to Dortmund from the Netherlands.”
The spokesman then said, “Our officers are at the location supporting German colleagues. We would advise supporters to be aware of their surroundings and seek areas where there is a German Police presence.”
Meanwhile, England and the Netherlands took to the field and had an impressive game. England came out ahead, beating the Netherlands 2-1. England is set to face off against Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin on Sunday, July 14.