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LFP issues punishments to Marseille for supporters' behaviour against Lyon

Reuters

The Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP) took action Thursday regarding the crowd violence that marred Olympique de Marseille's 1-1 draw against Olympique Lyonnais in September.

When the two clubs met at the Stade Velodrome, the fixture marked Mathieu Valbuena's first appearance at the stadium since he left Marseille over one year ago to join Dynamo Moscow. He then returned to the top flight of French football during this year's summer transfer window, signing a three-year contract with Lyon.

Understandably, Valbuena's return to Marseille triggered the most hostile of atmospheres. The match was suspended twice as Marseille supporters threw fireworks and glass bottles on the pitch, lit flares - one of which made contact with a player - and greeted Valbuena with a graphic effigy of himself.

Related: VIDEO: Crowd violence tarnishes Lyon's draw at Marseille

(Courtesy: L'Actu Foot)

The LFP's Commission de Discipline therefore issued the following punishments:

  • 2-game closure of the South End of the Stade Velodrome
  • 1-game closure of the North End of the Stade Velodrome
  • 1 game played behind closed doors
  • Fine of €40 000

It should be noted that the LFP's Commission de Discipline forced Marseille to close the South End and North End of the Stade Velodrome for its 2-1 defeat to Angers SCO at the end of September, meaning the club has already served part of its punishment.

Related: Marseille disciplined after crowd violence in Lyon match

Lyon will host Marseille in this season's return fixture on Jan. 23.

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