Massive brawl at pub stains England vs Germany match

About 100 people stormed and started a brawl at a London pub prior to the England and Germany match on Monday, according to Metropolitan Police. Although some of the group donned England gear, it is suspected that the attackers were German fans.

“At 17:50 on Monday, 26 September, a group of approximately 100 males, many wearing masks, approached a pub in Dagmar Avenue, Wembley through an alley leading towards the car park,” read a police statement on the ordeal.

“While a number of the group were wearing England hats and scarves, it is believed they were German ‘fans,'” the statement continued. “The group entered the beer garden of the pub and began assaulting customers, most of whom were in the area to attend the England vs Germany match. Punches and projectiles including traffic cones were thrown.”

“Officers responded and the group fled. The disorder lasted for around two minutes.”

According to the Daily Mail, some of the attackers may have used machetes and brass knives. Although police did not confirm the report, they did state that multiple injuries were evident at the scene. Three patrons sustained severe injuries to their extremities. Other patrons were treated for facial injuries, but it is not clear if there were any serious incidents. Five patrons were injured in total.

Despite the large number of people involved, only four arrests were made in the area.

According to reports, families frequent the pub regularly. The Green Man is less than a mile away from Wembley Stadium where the match was held. Recent reports indicate that soccer-related crime has increased by nearly 60% in England, Wales and the United Kingdom. Although this incident didn't occur in a stadium, it is alarming to see the increase in violence at soccer functions.

England and Germany fought out a thrilling 3-3 draw. The Germans went out to a 2-0 lead into the second half before Gareth Southgate’s team scored three consecutive goals. Kai Havertz scored in the 87th minute, to share the points.

PHOTO: IMAGO / Matthias Koch