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Game canceled for Kickers Offenbach: Safety concerns cast shadows!
Kickers Offenbach cancels dress rehearsal against MSV Duisburg. Safety concerns require short-term rescheduling for test games.
Game canceled for Kickers Offenbach: Safety concerns cast shadows!
The anticipation of the test match between Kickers Offenbach and MSV Duisburg on July 26th in the Eisbachtalstadion was suddenly dampened by a cancellation. The reason for the cancellation are safety-related requirements from the authorities, which were forwarded to the two clubs. “The cancellation comes at a bad time for the OFC,” said Christian Hock, the sports director of the Offenbach club. He is now required to find a new opponent at short notice in order to ensure the dress rehearsal before the start of the league game on August 2nd against Bahlinger SC. Maybe he will play against one of the numerous second and third division teams?
Kickers Offenbach has already taken the first steps and is planning a test match against third division club SV Wehen Wiesbaden, which will take place on Saturday at 2 p.m. Hock is in contact with various clubs, including teams from other regional league seasons, to find a quick solution. This means that the Kickers only have a few days left to optimally organize the dress rehearsal as part of their preparation.
Fans under observation
The cancellation also raises questions about the safety of football games. In recent weeks there have been several incidents that led to a “major police operation”, particularly at the game in Siegen, where provocations arose between fans. Offenbach supporters had left provocative stickers behind, which led to their personal details being checked and an escort back to the motorway. In this context, Hock alluded to the fan friendship between MSV Duisburg and Eintracht Frankfurt and speculated that this could possibly have an influence on the rigid security precautions.
A current study, which was carried out under the responsibility of Lothar Rieth, sheds light on exactly these security aspects in German football. The investigation shows the interaction of various actors, including the DFB, DFL, police, as well as fans and private security companies. Karl Rothmund, Vice President of the DFB, emphasizes the importance of prevention and safety measures, while Hendrik Große Lefert, the new safety officer, emphasizes the effectiveness of the existing concepts. The results of this study are intended to help football clubs to better manage future security issues and promote dialogue between all parties involved.
It also remains to be seen how the situation will develop further. While the Offenbach fans are preparing for the coming season, the pressure is on to have everything under control, both in terms of sport and safety. The Kickers are facing an economic and organizational challenge, because without a good hand they could be well positioned for the season, but also come under pressure.
For further information about the game cancellations and Kickers Offenbach's preparations, visit op-online.de and for the latest updates on club encounters, look up kicker.de. The DOSB study, which also provides some possible solutions, offers a deeper insight into the security situation in football.