Roma v Napoli: rivalry heats up, 10,000 Napoli fans expected despite ban | OneFootball

The clash between Roma and Napoli once again presents itself as one of the most delicate matches in the Italian league. A confrontation that, in recent decades, has seen sporting rivalry turn into an identity and territorial conflict, at times resulting in extremely serious incidents.

Roma-Napoli, high-tension rivalry: reinforced security and 10,000 Napoli fans expected despite the ban

The death of Ciro Esposito in 2014, struck by a Roma ultra just before the Coppa Italia final between Napoli and Fiorentina, marked the most dramatic point of a deeply rooted tension that has its origins in the 1990s.

A rivalry that goes beyond the pitch

Roma–Napoli is not just a match: it is an encounter that carries with it a complex historical context. From the restrictive measures imposed on fans in the 2000s to the famous “cage” at the San Paolo during a decisive match for Capello’s Roma in the title race, episodes of hostility have continued up to the unrest on the A1 motorway in 2023.

Despite the away trip being officially banned for residents of Campania, the turnout of Napoli fans remains high: about 10,000 supporters from Lazio and neighboring regions are expected in the stands of the Olimpico, making public order control particularly complex.

The Olimpico’s security plan

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that the Security Committee has put in place exceptional measures. During the technical meeting at the Prefecture, it was decided to keep traffic open on Lungotevere Maresciallo Diaz, an area usually monitored as a meeting point for organized Roma supporter groups.

The main focus, however, is inside the stadium:

in the stands and other sections there will be thousands of Napoli fans not identifiable as “guests” in the traditional sense;

the risk of contact and clashes is considered high;

the number of stewards has been significantly increased;

units of law enforcement will remain operational near the entrances and ready to intervene in case of incidents.

A confrontation that requires prevention and responsibility

The tension built up over the years, highlighted also by the harsh tones seen on social media in recent hours, has forced the Observatory and Prefect Giannini to put in place an extraordinary surveillance protocol. Despite the away travel ban imposed since 2014, violent episodes have never completely disappeared.

Roma–Napoli thus remains an event that requires constant attention, swift interventions, and a shared commitment to ensure the safety of everyone present. The hope is that the evening at the Olimpico will be remembered for what happens on the pitch and not for what risks happening outside.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.