Updated - The police turned up in force at Ta' Qali this evening to prevent possible trouble after a large number of Croatian football supporters flew to Malta even though it had been announced that they would not be allowed entry to the stadium for the Malta-Croatia Euro 2016 qualifier.

A detachment of police was seen wearing riot gear.

The decision to ban entry was taken jointly by UEFA and the MFA for security reasons in view of the past record of Croatian supporters. (Croatian supporters were also involved in violence in Ta' Qali 10 years ago).

Stadium officials checked the identity of all those trying to enter the stadium, amid reports that some Croatian supporters had managed to buy tickets. However no serious incidents took place. 

A disappointed Croatian supporter at Ta'Qali said he booked his flight to Malta four months ago, and it was only in the past few days that he was told that Croatians would be denied entry.

Eventually some Croatians were allowed on the balcony of the Millennium Stand. In all, attendance at Ta' Qali was 5,800.

PACEVILLE FIGHT

Early this morning, six Croatian men were held by the police following a fight in Paceville. 

The police said the fight took place at around 1.30am at St Rita Steps and also involved security guards from nearby establishments.

Fighting continued in St George's Road. Chairs, bottles and glasses were thrown at the security guards damaging bars and restaurants.

The police later also arrested several other drunk Croatians.  

Meanwhile, a group of Croatians unfurled an insulting banner at Hastings Garden in Floriana. However the insults were not directed at the Maltese, but against Croatian FA officials. The group, in view of its criticism of the Croatian FA, is hoping that their country does not qualify for the Euro 2016 finals. 

The banner read: @You are playing Gods, while you are hiding in VIPlounges. Enjoy your last drink scumbags!!!"

 

 

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