Dutch Fans Demand Apology From AZ Alkmaar Over Israel Match
Ahead of Hapoel Be'er Sheva's upcoming Europa League match against AZ Alkmaar on October 15, the Dutch club's fan organization, Benside Loyals, has issued a strong statement demanding the club prioritize football over politics. The message, posted on Instagram, explicitly stated, "AZ is ours, without demonstrations, without political condemnations, without Palestine or Israel flags. Zero tolerance - AZ, and nothing else." This call comes in the wake of a previous incident involving Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv, which faced disruptions during their match against Ajax in Amsterdam in November 2024. Hapoel Be'er Sheva began their Europa League campaign with a 0-0 draw against Dinamo Zagreb, while AZ Alkmaar lost their opening match 1-0 away to Sunderland. AZ Alkmaar features former Maccabi Tel Aviv player Wesley Hoedt.
The same event, reported separately by each outlet. Open a few to compare what different newsrooms emphasize — and what they leave out.
Not the same event — other stories that share this one’s people, places, or theme: background, reactions, and follow-ups.
