Tensions flared ahead of the Tuscan derby between Pisa and Fiorentina, with clashes erupting between supporters before the match. Reports indicate that ultras from both teams engaged in violent confrontations in the northern outskirts of Pisa early Sunday morning.
Eyewitness accounts describe scenes of chaos, with reports of objects being thrown and flares being set off before law enforcement intervened. Hundreds of police officers were deployed to maintain order, amidst concerns that Fiorentina fans protesting ticket prices might attempt to approach the stadium area.
The political ramifications of the violence were swift, with condemnation coming from various political figures. Enrico Bruni of the Democratic Party criticised the lack of police presence during the pre-match clashes, while Simone Fabbrini of Brothers of Italy condemned separate incidents of violence in Pisa's Piazza delle Vettovaglie.
Despite the off-field drama, the match itself proceeded as scheduled at the Arena Garibaldi. Fantacalcio enthusiasts were keen to see the official lineups, with Gudmundsson making a return to the Fiorentina starting eleven alongside Kean in attack. Gilardino opted for the Tramoni-Nzola pairing for Pisa.
Official Lineups:
Pisa (3-5-2):
- Semper; Canestrelli, Caracciolo, Bonfanti; Toure, Aebischer, Marin, Akinsanmiro, Leris; Tramoni, Nzola.
Fiorentina (3-5-2):
- De Gea; Pongracic, Pablo Mari, Ranieri; Dodo, Mandragora, Nicolussi Caviglia, Fazzini, Gosens; Gudmundsson, Kean.
The match promises to be a heated affair, both on and off the pitch. Stay tuned for updates on the game and any further developments regarding the fan violence.