The return of the Genoa-Sampdoria derby after a two-and-a-half-year absence has plunged Genoa into chaos. Calciomercato report how instead of anticipation for the match, the city is paralyzed by an urban warfare-like atmosphere in the hours leading up to kickoff.
Despite extensive security measures, including over 200 riot police, widespread checks even in areas far from the stadium, and the deployment of a high-definition camera-equipped police helicopter, tensions remain high among the most aggressive fans.
Reports indicate that a police officer was injured in morning clashes and received medical attention from emergency services.
Throughout the late morning, several skirmishes between opposing fan groups were reported across the city. The most concerning incident occurred near the Luigi Ferraris stadium at Ponte Gerolamo Serra. Two groups, each comprising dozens of individuals, confronted each other from a distance, hurling stones, sticks, and smoke bombs. Only the intervention of law enforcement, positioning themselves between the groups, prevented physical clashes.
The Marassi neighborhood appears to be held hostage by violent fans, with residents struggling to move even from one block to another. Social media reports suggest that ultras from other fan bases, including foreign supporters allied with either Genoa or Sampdoria, have arrived in the city to support their respective factions.
