Trabzonspor Fans Attack Fenerbahce Players, Some Fight Back

Hundreds of Trabzonspor fans stormed the field after their team's home defeat by rivals Fenerbahce in the Turkish Super Lig on Sunday.

Two goals from former Manchester United midfielder Fred and a late winner scored by ex-Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi had seen Fenerbahce prevail 3-2.

After the final whistle, the Fenerbahce players celebrated together in the center circle before one fan breached security and began charging towards them.

The pitch invader approached the Fenerbahce players in a fighting stance before he was pounced upon by several team members - including right-back Bright Osayi-Samuel, who swung a punch.

Moments later, the field was full of angry Trabzonspor fans. Many threw punches, while one used a corner flag pole as a weapon.

Some players ran for cover. Others fought back.

Batshuayi aimed a spinning high kick at a fan who was sprinting towards him near the tunnel area.

Hundreds of home fans stormed the field after Fenerbahce won 3-2 at Trabzonspor on Sunday

IMAGO/Depo Photos

FIFA president Gianni Infantino later said the incidents were "absolutely unacceptable".

Infantino added: "I have said it before, and I will say it again - without exception, in football, all players have to be safe and secure to play the game which brings such joy to so many people all over the world.

"I call on the relevant authorities to ensure that this is respected at all levels and for the perpetrators of the shocking events in Trabzon to be held accountable for their actions."

Turkey's Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said on Sunday night: "It is never acceptable for violence to take place on football pitches - above all, sport is gentlemanship"

Yerlikaya said on Monday that 12 fans had been arrested.