Feyenoord supporters storm into their own ground during Eredivisie match and let off flares and fireworks, calling fixture to a brief stop… with players deciding to applaud dozens of masked intruders before they left
- A group of Feyenoord supporters broke into their own ground during a fixture
- Feyenoord’s match against RKC Waalwijk in the Eredivisie was brought to a stop
- A few dozen fans, some wearing masks, were able to let off flares and fireworks
- In a shock move, Feyenoord players chose to clap the intruders before they left
A large number of Feyenoord supporters were able to break into their team’s stadium and call a brief halt to a fixture after letting off flares and fireworks.
It is not known how dozens of ultras found their way inside the ground, De Kuip Stadium, in the 66th minute of Feyenoord’s clash against RKC Waalwijk – with one stand having been occupied before they left.
Several players from the hosts were seen on camera applauding the intruders, despite their controversial actions, and the game was able to continue around 10 minutes after the disturbance.
A number of Feyenoord supporters broke into their own ground on Sunday and let off flares
The intruders made their way inside the stadium in one corner and brought a halt to a fixture
The break-in took place in the 66th minute, with a group of fans seen making their way along one end of the pitch from a corner of the venue.
Stars from both sides, as well as the coaches and officials, watched on stunned.
With Feyenoord leading 3-0, substitutes vacated the dugouts and made their way to the centre of the pitch, while the supporters, some of whom sporting masks, let loose loud chants.
Television footage caught the moment that the players watched on as the fans broke inside
To alleviate tensions, Feyenoord players went over to applaud the supporters, who then left
It is even believed flares landed on the field of play during the incident.
Soon, in an attempt to alleviate any tensions, Feyenoord players decided to clap in the direction of the fans, who promptly walked back out and allowed proceedings to pick back up shortly after the hour mark.
After the game, captain Steven Berghuis revealed the reasons behind the surprising response.
‘It wouldn’t have made sense to go (to the dressing room room),’ Berghuis told ESPN. ‘As players we would not have wanted that and I think we have solved it well.’
Flares were left off inside the stand and many of the intruders were seen wearing face masks
A thick cloud of flare smoke soon drifted its way on to the pitch during the incident in Holland
The match, which took place in the Eredivisie – the top-flight in Holland, was held on the final day of the regular season.
Feyenoord are historically one of the biggest clubs in the country, along with Ajax and PSV Eindhoven, but finished the campaign down in fifth spot.
As a result, they will have to compete for a place in the Europa League next term through a play-off. They take on Sparta Rotterdam in the semi-finals.