Girona’s first home match in the Champions League is classified as high risk due to Feyenoord Rotterdam fans. The city is preparing for the worst.
If the trip to the Parc des Princes against PSG (1-0) was the ideal poster for Girona’s debut in the Champions League, Feyenoord Rotterdam was undoubtedly the worst draw for a first home match.
Supported by some of the toughest hooligans in Europe, the Dutch are the best at ruining a party. So, the Girona town hall, the club and the Mossos d’Esquadra have prepared a special device to prevent the party from getting out of hand.
Accustomed to the family atmosphere of La Liga, supporters may not recognize their city this Wednesday (kick-off at 6:45 p.m.).
Securing the stadium, the city… and the Costa Brava
Of course, the police have planned mass reinforcements to secure access to the stadium. But before that, the police presence will be reinforced in different places during the day even if the authorities also expect Dutch supporters to storm the seaside resorts of the Costa Brava, known for their festive places.
In addition to a revised traffic plan, Girona is really barricading itself for this match. Thus, catering establishments in several squares and rambles in the city will not be able to install bars or other elements on the terrace and will have to serve customers in single-use glasses.
They will also have to comply with strict guidelines on the sale of alcoholic beverages. Instructions sent directly to establishments by mail.
The city will also put up fences around certain sculptures in old Girona to prevent unscrupulous Dutch supporters from accessing and damaging the city’s marvelous heritage.
The first in the Champions League has not yet been spoiled for Girona but the atmosphere may well not be festive…
