As a result of last night’s disturbances, AZ has issued a statement. Things went completely wrong after the semi-final against West Ham United, after AZ hooligans went to the main stand. “Where everyone hoped for a historic European match beforehand, it became an inky black evening because of the events surrounding the final whistle,” the club writes in a statement.
There is a good chance that AZ will be severely punished by UEFA as a result of last night’s disturbances. Earlier this season, the Alkmaarders already played without supporters in sections W, X1 and X2 during the match against FC Vaduz. The European Football Association then decided that after fans had thrown objects on the field. AZ then also had to pay a fine of 30,000 euros.
By throwing objects on the field, the supporters had violated a suspended sentence. Throwing objects also happened in March 2022 in the home game against FK Bodo / Glimt.
“It was an evening to look back on with shame,” continues AZ. Not because of the football, but because of the behavior of some visitors. Unfortunately we cannot use the word supporters for these people. What happened is beyond all bounds.”
“Club again offers sincere apologies to West Ham United and all thousands of well-intentioned AZ supporters who have also been inconvenienced by the misconduct. In the coming period we will evaluate (together with the local quadrangle) exactly what happened, how that has can happen and what needs to be improved from now on. It is clear that things need to be improved.”
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“Part of the evaluation is a thorough review of all available images, so that appropriate consequences can follow for those responsible for this scandalous behaviour. AZ is a club of civilization and where sportsmanship and norms and values are paramount. The club will do everything it can together with the relevant authorities, to identify these persons and to take appropriate measures.”