On Saturday evening, there were serious disturbances at the Olympiastadion in Berlin during the Second Division match between Hertha BSC and FC Schalke 04. Even before the game started, clashes occurred in the area of the away fans' block between Schalke supporters and security forces. Reports suggest that the police used pepper spray and batons after an attempt was allegedly made to break through a barrier.
The active fan scene of Hertha BSC reacted to the incidents with a show of solidarity. The Berlin ultras left the stadium together in protest against the police action. Organized support was also temporarily stopped in the Schalke block. The match itself had to be interrupted several times because fans from both sides threw tennis balls and other objects onto the pitch to protest against the current league policy of the DFL.
Sportingly, the game ended in a draw after the long interruptions. Special attention was paid to the performance of Loris Karius, the Schalke goalkeeper, who secured the point for the visitors with several saves. The Berlin 'Fanhilfe' criticized the police operation as disproportionate and reported numerous injuries among the spectators. The Berlin police have opened investigations into the incidents.
