(Montreal) CF Montreal has announced that its section usually reserved for groups of supporters of the opposing team at Stade Saputo will be closed on Saturday night against Toronto FC.
This decision was made due to “unfortunate and unacceptable” incidents that occurred during the duel between the two teams Tuesday night in Toronto in the quarterfinals of the Canadian Soccer Championship.
A video surfaced on social media on Tuesday in which supporters of TFC and CF Montreal came to blows.
In a brief statement, CF Montreal condemned the situation and added that an investigation is underway.
“The safety of our supporters and supporter groups is a priority for the club. No violence is tolerated at the Saputo stadium, just like in the other stadiums where our fans travel,” the team said.
CF Montreal said that fans who had already purchased tickets in the section that will be closed for the MLS match between the two teams on Saturday will be reimbursed.
The club added that it was “in discussion with Soccer Canada, MLS and Toronto FC to ensure that each event is safe”.
Toronto FC also released a statement Wednesday saying the team is “actively investigating” the events.
PHOTO WINSLOW TOWNSON, USA TODAY SPORTS ARCHIVE VIA REUTERS CON
CF Montreal head coach Hernan Losada
“Toronto FC and MLSE (Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment) have a zero tolerance policy on violence and we continue to prioritize the safety of our fans, players and staff,” the team said. We are committed to ensuring that BMO Field is a safe environment for everyone.
“Other information will be revealed when the investigation is completed. »
For its part, Canada Soccer also confirms an investigation. “We collect information and reports from the various parties in order to examine them and submit them to our disciplinary committee. We expect to render a decision next week. »
CF Montreal head coach Hernan Losada commented on the violent gestures in the stands after the match won 2-1 by his troops.
“I saw a group of fans who had come from Montreal to encourage us. Unfortunately, I heard there were incidents in the stands, the Argentine noted. I hope everyone is okay, because their support is important to us. »
After the whistle signaled the end of the match, TFC midfielder Mark-Anthony Kaye had to be restrained so as not to attack agitated supporters at the edge of the pitch. In another video posted on social media capturing the scene, a megaphone can be seen thrown in the direction of Kaye.
Some groups of supporters are led by a leader with a megaphone, who leads the chants.