London – Saba:
The final match of the Women's County Cup in England was halted on Monday following protests in the stands by fans of both teams against "Israel" and in support of Palestinians.
According to the Palestinian news agency Ma'an, from the start of the match between Dulwich Hamlet and Clapton, supporters waved Palestinian flags and held a banner reading, "Show the red card to genocide." In the 20th minute, stadium officials sent security forces to remove the flags from the stands, but the crowd refused to comply.
The match referees decided to suspend the game and gave the players two options: either resume the match without spectators or cancel it entirely. The players chose to leave the field, prompting fans to intensify their chants and protests, including pro-Palestinian demonstrations.
Clapton FC stated: "Our players and supporters stand united in their support and concern for Palestinians facing daily bombardment. Expressing support with a flag or banner is not a reason to stop a cup final."
The Football Association ruled that the match would end without a result, with no replay, and no winner declared. Both teams are expected to face disciplinary action.
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