“Nine fans banned by the police after incidents at the V. Guimarães-Sporting match.”

Nine fans were prevented from attending the thrilling clash between Sporting and Vitória de Guimarães in the League Cup, an event that culminated in a dramatic turnaround. The Public Security Police (PSP) announced on Wednesday that, during sporting policing operations carried out at the Dr. Magalhães Pessoa Municipal Stadium in Leiria, nine individuals were identified and banned from the event. The measure comes in response to behaviors that threaten the safety and integrity of the event.

In an official statement, the Leiria District Command of the PSP revealed that two fans were specifically banned due to their attempt to bring pyrotechnic items into the sports venue. Surprisingly, one of these fans was a minor of just 15 years old, who was accompanied by his father. The duo was caught with seven pyrotechnic items, leading to the initiation of administrative proceedings that will be sent to the Authority for the Prevention and Combat of Violence in Sport, which will take the necessary administrative measures for banning.

Additionally, seven other fans were prevented from entering the stadium for having blood alcohol levels exceeding the legal limit. The PSP also identified two men who were not fans, referenced for vehicle theft crimes, one of whom was charged for being in possession of a stolen mobile phone.

The match, which ended with a 2-1 victory for Vitória de Guimarães, marked a historic milestone for the club, which qualified for the League Cup final for the first time. The game was characterized by a significant turnaround, with Alioune Ndoye shining by scoring two decisive goals in the final minutes, after Luis Suárez had given the lions the lead just 13 minutes into the match.

Now, Vitória de Guimarães is preparing to face Benfica in the final, a clash that promises to be intense, given that Benfica is the title holder and record holder of trophies in the competition.

The PSP, aware of the importance of safety at sporting events, has made an appeal to all citizens, emphasizing the need for respectful behavior and cooperation. Commissioner André Serra reiterated that the goal is to ensure that the match becomes a true celebration of sport, where unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. He also advised fans to arrive early and to be mindful of prohibited items in the stadium, reinforcing the message that everyone’s safety is a priority.