November 8 – One of Europe’s most famous derbies was played out in front of thousands of empty seats on Sunday as fans of both Roma and Lazio boycotted the game in protest over increased security measures at the Olympic Stadium.
The two clubs share the venue and some supporters have already made their feelings known by refusing to attend other home games over the decision to erect new barriers behind each goal. The measures were introduced to allow better access for police to enter the areas in case of crowd trouble.
The Stadio Olimpico has a capacity of just over 72,000 but only around half that number turned up on Sunday as Roma won 2-0, with ultras of both clubs conspicuous by their absence.
“I hope this situation is resolved soon and I hope the derby can become a celebration again,” Roma midfielder Alessandro Florenzi said.
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