This Day in History: 2023-06-26

Nr. 483

ANGLO-ITALIAN ANIMOSITY SPILLS OVER (1970)

Flailing fists replaced dessert as two footballing sides took to fighting in the streets of Rome in September 1970. FIFA president Sir Stanley Raus was prompted to demand a report after an off-field dash between Lazio and Arsenal players and officials. Ill feeling from a drawn Fairs Cup game spilled over at a post-match banquet. It never emerged which remark started the melee, but dozens were involved. Onlookers alleged even mild-mannered Arsenal manager Bertie Mee grabbed his Italian counterpart by the lapels and threw a punch. Arsenal went on to progress in the competition with a 2-0 home win.

Arsenal’s John Roberts challenges Lazio’s Giorgio Chinaglia during the extremely heated tussle between the two teams.