The 108th Derby della Lanterna between Genoa and Sampdoria descended into chaos as violent clashes erupted following the match, leaving a trail of injuries and arrests in its wake.
Calciomercato report how the city of Genoa was plunged into a state of turmoil reminiscent of the 2001 G8 summit riots. The night air was filled with the ominous sound of helicopter rotors, the flashing blue lights of police vehicles, and the acrid smell of smoke bombs and tear gas.
Tensions had been brewing for months between extreme factions of both clubs’ supporters. The derby’s return served as a flashpoint for those seeking violent confrontation. Early morning skirmishes had already resulted in one police officer being hospitalized.
The spark that ignited the powder keg came when Genoa fans displayed stolen banners belonging to Sampdoria’s Ultras Tito Cucchiaroni group in the Gradinata Nord section of the stadium. This act of provocation demanded immediate retaliation in the twisted logic of ultra culture.
As the final whistle blew on the Coppa Italia match, hundreds of fans from both sides converged on the streets surrounding the Luigi Ferraris stadium. Armed with makeshift weapons and wearing masks, they engaged in pitched battles that lasted until 2:30 AM.
The violence was exacerbated by the arrival of allied fan groups from across Italy and even abroad, all intent on joining the fray. Burning dumpsters and uprooted street signs became improvised weapons in the melee.
Only the decisive intervention of riot police, aided by high-resolution cameras mounted on a helicopter, prevented further escalation. Despite their efforts, the night’s toll was severe: at least 15 injured supporters, with nine hospitalized, and eight arrests made.
While damage to property was relatively limited, the events of the night stand as a grim reminder of the persistent problem of ultra violence in Italian football.
