Genoa vs Juventus likely to be played behind closed doors to send ‘signal’ | OneFootball

Paolo Cortis, President of the National Observatory on National Sporting Events, confirms that Genoa vs Juventus will likely be played behind closed doors tomorrow to ‘send a signal’ after clashes in the latest derby della Lanterna.

Genoa and Sampdoria ultras clashed before and after a Coppa Italia derby at Marassi on Saturday, and both clubs will likely face consequences during the upcoming official fixtures.

Cortis, President of the National Observatory on National Sporting Events, confirmed in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport that Genoa’s next Serie A game against Juventus will likely be played behind closed doors at Marassi.

During the interview, Cortis admitted that this was one of the measures the Observatory suggested to the Genoa Prosecutor.

Genoa vs Juventus likely to be played behind closed doors to send ‘signal’

“We knew it [Genoa vs Samp] was a risky game, and there was the highest alert,” said Cortis.

“We knew it was an explosive situation. The clubs did everything possible to avoid problems, but when we talk about this level of violent ultras, the sporting interest really is minimal. There were 36 people wounded, which is too bad.

“Normally, games are played behind closed doors to avoid bad situations, but in this case, we must send a signal, even if that would mean solving some problems outside the stadium,” he continued.

“We will always be there. I repeat we can’t bear 36 wounded. Police officers are used as human shields nowadays, and it’s not acceptable.”

Cortis’ words mean that the Genoa Prosecutor will likely rule that the game on Saturday will be played without a crowd.

Thiago Motta, a former Genoa player and coach, will return to Marassi tomorrow with his Juventus side. The Bianconeri have collected nine points in the opening five Serie A games.

Alberto Gilardino’s Genoa lost to Sampdoria on penalties on Wednesday and have just five points in five league games.