Polish fan stabbed, clashes overshadow Lukas Podolski’s farewell match in Cologne. Police arrest suspect.
Stabbing Before Podolski’s Farewell Game
A 32-year-old Polish football fan was stabbed on Thursday afternoon in Cologne, just before Lukas Podolski’s farewell match. The incident occurred in Wallrafplatz, near the city’s center. Following the attack, the fan underwent emergency surgery, while German police detained a 17-year-old suspect. An investigation is underway, and the Polish fan is currently fighting for his life.
Clashes Between Polish Fans and German Police
An hour later, violent clashes erupted between other Polish fans and local police in Cologne’s city center. Officers were pelted with stones and bottles, leading to injuries for nine German policemen. To control the situation, the police used batons and tear gas. The march of fans to the stadium was halted due to the unrest.
Podolski’s Emotional Farewell
Despite the chaos, Podolski’s farewell match, attended by 50,000 fans, went ahead peacefully inside the stadium. The 39-year-old World Cup champion expressed his mixed emotions, reflecting on his deep connection to FC Koeln and its supporters.