AEK has called on its fans to follow the example set during the match against Dinamo Zagreb, ahead of the rematch with Antwerp on Wednesday (August 30, 22:00) at the OPAP Arena.
The “yellow and black” club issued a statement, reminding everyone that the use of smoke flares, flares, and lasers is strictly prohibited, among other things.
The announcement of AEK reads as follows:
Dear AEK fans,
In light of the match against Antwerp tomorrow, Wednesday, (August 30, 22:00), we remind you that this is a Champions League match, and the play-off matches of the tournament have the same exact requirements and conditions as the group stage matches, according to UEFA.
It is clear, therefore, that we must give great importance to respecting all safety rules and cooperate with the authorities responsible for enforcing them. The game against Dinamo Zagreb is the perfect example of our behavior both inside and outside the OPAP Arena. With this behavior, we achieved a great qualification. We must emphasize that UEFA has designated the match against Antwerp as “high profile” and is paying particular attention to the smooth conduct of the game.
The gates of the OPAP Arena will open at 19:00. From that time onwards, there will be strict pre-controls, and anyone without a ticket will not be able to approach the entrances.
No fan carrying a backpack or holding a bag will be able to pass the controls and enter the stadium.
As was the case with Dinamo Zagreb, there is no room for even one smoke flare to be lit or one flare to be launched during the match against Antwerp, and the use of any laser device is strictly prohibited. Any violation may result in the closure of stands for the next matches or even a home stadium ban.
We are also forced to remind you that the internal security camera system will operate as always, and it is impossible for anyone attempting to light a smoke flare, launch a flare, or use a laser to go unnoticed.
In addition to the legal consequences, individuals will be banned from entering the OPAP Arena in the future. This measure has already been implemented and will continue to be enforced. All these sanctions apply to any violation of the rules, either during entry or while inside the stadium. And we remind you once again: it is impossible for the security cameras not to notice.
It is also very important to improve the image with regards to the aisles, to avoid any risks of penalties. No one should sit in the aisles.
We must definitely avoid displaying banners that may give the authorities reasons to create serious problems for AEK at the start of the game. Any banner or placard with anti-sports, provocative, offensive, or racist content will not pass the controls and therefore, will not be allowed into the stadium.
Once again, we emphasize that no child will be allowed into the stadium without a ticket.
It is also important for everyone to arrive at the stadium as early as possible to avoid queues and inconvenience. There will be a very strict control procedure.
Carry your identification papers with you, as they may be required by the competent authorities.
AEK is confident that our fans will adhere to all the necessary measures to protect our team and ensure everyone’s safety. We repeat the example set during the match against Dinamo, where we all dedicated ourselves to support the team in every way possible, and we succeeded at all levels, together. The same will happen against Antwerp.
Thank you for your cooperation, and let’s all come together to support AEK with our voices and enthusiasm!