Police Chase Beitar Jerusalem Fans in Larnaca Ahead of Conference League Match

Beitar Jerusalem is set to open its European season on Thursday evening with an away match against AEK Larnaca in the second qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League. However, reports from Cypriot media claim that Israeli fans caused disturbances in Larnaca the night before the game. According to local outlets, a group of Beitar supporters marched through the city center, allegedly causing property damage and carrying dangerous objects. Police reportedly responded with tear gas to disperse the crowd and launched a manhunt to detain those involved.

The Cypriot newspaper Daily Sport detailed that the police increased security measures significantly following the incident, with Meridian Sport noting that the provocative behavior of Beitar fans forced authorities to prepare for heightened security during the match. Local police reinforced security around the AEK Arena and throughout Larnaca to prevent further clashes between fan groups and maintain public order.

In response, Beitar Jerusalem denied the allegations, stating that their fans did not cause any damage and that tear gas was used only against AEK fans who initiated confrontations. The club emphasized that no arrests were made and called on Israeli media to verify facts before publishing reports that could harm the reputation of their supporters.

The first leg between Beitar Jerusalem and AEK Larnaca will take place on July 23, with the return leg scheduled for the following week in Hungary. Should Beitar advance on aggregate, they will face the winner of the tie between Austria Vienna and Liepaja. A loss would end their European campaign for the season.