Over 200 supporters of Greek football club Panathinaikos FC gathered in Bern's Old Town today, ahead of their Europa League match against Young Boys (YB). The Aarbergergasse area became a focal point for the visiting fans, who created an atmosphere filled with green and white club colors.
Key Takeaways
- Over 200 Panathinaikos fans assembled in Bern's Aarbergergasse.
- The gathering occurred before the Europa League match against YB.
- Police issued guidelines prohibiting political chants and fan marches.
- Fans are expected to remain in their sector for up to 30 minutes post-match.
Fan Gathering Transforms Aarbergergasse
The Aarbergergasse, known as a popular meeting spot, saw a significant influx of Panathinaikos supporters. They began arriving as early as 2:00 PM. By late afternoon, the crowd exceeded 200 individuals, turning parts of the street into a sea of green and white, the official colors of the Athens-based club.
Despite a light drizzle, fans sought shelter under the historic arcades and the awning of McCarthy's Irish Pub. The pub's green logo and shamrock symbol resonated with the club's colors, making it a natural gathering point for the Greek visitors. This created a lively scene in the heart of Bern.
Fan Facts
- Number of Fans: Over 200
- Location: Aarbergergasse, Bern Old Town
- Colors Displayed: Green and White (Panathinaikos FC)
- Match: Europa League vs. Young Boys
Police Guidelines Issued to Visiting Supporters
Bernese police had prepared for the arrival of the foreign fans. They distributed information leaflets detailing specific rules for behavior in the city. These guidelines aimed to ensure public order and safety during the event.
"Any form of chants, verbal expressions, musical pieces, stunts, etc., that convey political messages and/or incite violence are prohibited," the police stated in their information leaflet. "Furthermore, fan marches are generally not permitted."
These regulations are standard practice for international football matches in Bern, similar to previous games involving clubs like Slovan Bratislava and Red Star Belgrade. The police emphasize preventing any disruptive or politically charged displays.
Security Measures for Post-Match Departure
Authorities have also outlined procedures for after the match concludes. Visiting fans will be required to remain in their designated sector within the stadium for up to 30 minutes following the final whistle. This measure helps manage crowd dispersal and ensures a smooth exit for all attendees.
The coordinated effort by law enforcement aims to balance the vibrant atmosphere of international football with the need to maintain peace and order in the city. Bern is accustomed to hosting such events and implements robust security protocols.
Europa League Context
Tonight's match marks YB's first Europa League game of the season. They face Panathinaikos FC, the Greek vice-champions, at 9:00 PM local time. The Europa League is a prestigious European club football competition organized by UEFA.
Teams from across Europe compete in the tournament, which offers a pathway to the UEFA Champions League for the winner. Matches often draw significant away support, leading to increased activity in host cities.
Fan Chants and Atmosphere
The Panathinaikos supporters engaged in intermittent chants, adding to the festive mood in the Aarbergergasse. These chants, often referred to as "Greek battle songs," are a traditional part of football fan culture. They serve to express team loyalty and excitement for the upcoming game.
Many fans were seen wearing or displaying club scarves, visibly demonstrating their support. The energy was palpable, reflecting the anticipation for the important European fixture. Such gatherings are common before major sporting events, allowing fans to connect and build collective excitement.
Impact on Local Business
The influx of over 200 visitors, even for a few hours, can provide a boost to local businesses in the Old Town. Establishments like McCarthy's Irish Pub benefit from increased foot traffic and patronage. This economic activity is a positive side effect of hosting international sporting events.
Local shop owners and restaurants often prepare for such occasions, expecting higher demand for food, beverages, and souvenirs. The temporary gathering of fans adds a unique, international flavor to Bern's city center.
Preparing for the Game
As the evening progresses, the fans are expected to make their way to the stadium for the 9:00 PM kick-off. The journey from the Old Town to the stadium will be managed by police to ensure an orderly procession. This proactive approach aims to prevent any potential conflicts or disturbances.
The match between YB and Panathinaikos is a key event in the Europa League calendar. Both teams will be looking to start their campaign strongly. The presence of such a dedicated away support highlights the passion and global reach of European football.