Liverpool Issues Real Madrid Apology For Team Bus Attack
Liverpool have apologised to Real Madrid after their Champions League quarterfinal opponent’s team bus was attacked by some section of the club’s fans on their way to Anfield on Wednesday.
Despite coronavirus protocols still in place and the game being played in an empty stadium, hundreds of Liverpool fans lined the streets of Anfield to welcome both teams for the quarterfinal second leg, with the visitors holding a 3-1 advantage from the first leg.
However, pictures and footages appeared to show a window on the Real Madrid team bus had been smashed on its way to the ground by some of the home fans.
"We condemn unequivocally the actions that led to Real Madrid’s team bus being damaged during its arrival to Anfield this evening," a Liverpool spokesperson said.
"It is totally unacceptable and shameful behaviour of a few individuals.
"We sincerely apologise to our visitors for any distress caused. We will work together with Merseyside Police to establish the facts and identify those responsible.”
Merseyside Police have launched an investigation into the incident, with Chief Superintendent Zoe Thornton telling Sky Sports: "We can confirm an investigation is underway after damage was caused to the Real Madrid team bus this evening, as it approached Anfield Stadium ahead of Liverpool's Champions League match with Real Madrid.
"Despite the advice to avoid attending the ground, approximately 400 people attended Anfield Road and as coaches approached, a number of items were thrown at the Real Madrid team bus. We are aware of images which show the outer pane of the lead coach window being damaged, the glass did not break through and there are no reported injuries.
"A number of pyrotechnics were also lit in the area, which significantly reduced visibility and could have put other people in danger.
"As with all matches, we have worked very closely with both clubs to ensure the safety of the public and the teams themselves, and the disgraceful behaviour of those involved this evening is extremely disappointing and totally unacceptable. Such incidents will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
"A dedicated investigation team will be reviewing CCTV footage from the area, along with our own body worn camera footage, and working closely with the club to identify those responsible. I would also ask anyone who was in the area and captured mobile phone video footage of the incident to please get in touch."
