Two Brighton and Hove Albion fans have been attacked, stabbed and robbed in Rome ahead of tonight’s Europa League last 16 first leg against AS Roma at the Stadio Olimpico. The Seagulls’ exciting trip to the Italian capital has been soured by the shocking incident, which reports claim took place at around midnight last night.
According to Italian outlet NOVA.news, employees of some restaurants near Via Cavour, a street and area near the city’s train terminal and the famous Colosseum, witnessed the attack.
They are said to have raised the alarm when six or seven individuals with covered faces attacked two male Brighton supporters, aged 28 and 29.
The gang reportedly disappeared into the night shortly before police officers arrived on the scene at the Ministry of the Interior.
Both Brighton fans had been injured by punches and light stab wounds to the legs while being robbed of their pouches containing documents and wallets.
The report adds that the two Seagulls followers were whisked away to Umberto I and San Giovanni for treatment. Local police are said to be investigating the incident.
Newcastle United were also at the centre of trouble when they visited Milan in the Champions League group stage earlier this season.
Magpies fan Eddie McKay was the victim of two stabs in his arm and one in the back around the 0-0 draw at San Siro back in September.
The developments from Rome have somewhat marred a memorable night ahead for Brighton, who received the mouthwatering draw after topping a tough a tough Group B earlier in the tournament.
Roberto De Zerbi’s side finished above Marseille, Ajax and AEK Athens with four wins, one draw and one defeat.
Roma edged past Feyenoord on penalties after a 2-2 aggregate draw in their knockout play-off tie, having finished second in Group G behind Slavia Praha.
