Snipers seen on stadium roof at Italy vs Israel as pro-Palestine protesters ‘attack cops’

Violence is said to have broken out between police and pro-Palestine protesters ahead of Israel’s World Cup qualifier in Italy as snipers were spotted on the roof of the Udine stadium

Snipers were spotted on the roof of the Stadio Friuli stadium as violence broke out ahead of Israel’s World Cup qualifier in Italy.

Authorities put the match in Udine on Tuesday night, October 14, in the highest risk category, despite the ceasefire deal that has halted two years of war in Gaza. A pro-Palestinian march took place in the city centre before kick-off, with up to 15,000 people in attendance according to organisers, and some 9,000 according to the police.

It was kept away from the Stadio Friuli – currently known as Bluenergy Stadium – which is on the outskirts of the city, but violence is said to have broken out according to Rai Network, Italy’s national public broadcaster.

It reported “tense moments” in Piazza Primo Maggio as “several dozen rioters attempted to break through the police cordon to advance toward the stadium area”.

Rai Network said police controlled the situation with the help of march stewards. But it said violence then ensured, when more protesters broke through and water cannons were deployed.

Rai Network reported: “A truck with a water cannon arrived and pushed them back. Objects were thrown at the police.

“Police charges and further water cannon fire followed. Tear gas was also fired. At least one protester was reportedly arrested.

“An injured journalist was taken to the hospital, and a law enforcement officer was also injured.” Smoke bombs and firecrackers were also reportedly set off.

Snipers were seen on the roof of the arena, the home of Serie A club Udinese, ahead of Israel’s arrival.

The Israel team bus was escorted to the stadium with maximum security and military presence.

The area was declared a “red zone” and only fans with tickets could pass through the tall metal barriers.

From the air, helicopter drones surveyed the ground, while water cannons were set up as an anti-terrorism measure.

Supporters were advised to arrive early as every fan was ordered to go through metal detectors. Only around 9,000 tickets were sold for the qualifier at the 25,000 capacity stadium.

Meanwhile, stewards have been put on high alert for any pitch invaders.

A protester invaded the pitch wearing a ‘Free Gaza’ T-Shirt during Israel’s 5-0 defeat in Norway last Saturday. Thousands of pro-Palestine protesters were present in Oslo.

Israel are three points behind Italy in their World Cup qualifying group and hope to secure a play-off spot by finishing second. Norway sit top of the table, but a win for Israel this evening would see them go level on 12 points with Italy.

Premier League stars including Manchester City keeper Gigi Donnarumma, Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali, and Tottenham pair Destiny Udogie and Guglielmo Vicario are in the Italy squad.