Europa League: Israel pressures for Hapoel Beer-Sheva fans at Alkmaar
Israel is stepping up diplomatic pressure for Hapoel Beer-Sheva fans to be admitted to the Europa League match against AZ Alkmaar, which still refuses to lift the ban, according to several Dutch media outlets.
Israel is not giving up on getting AZ Alkmaar to reverse its decision to ban away supporters for the Europa League match against Hapoel Beer-Sheva. According to NOS, the Israeli ambassador contacted Alkmaar's mayor, Anja Schouten, on Monday to try to have the ban lifted. The embassy confirmed to Nieuwsuur that a telephone exchange took place between the embassy and the mayor.
A firm request from Israel
According to Voetbalnieuws, Israel is not resigned to the decision to exclude Hapoel Beer-Sheva supporters. The Dutch outlet reports that the ambassador got in touch with Anja Schouten in the hope of getting the municipality to change its position. However, Alkmaar is reportedly not inclined to give in, the same source indicates.
FCUpdate goes further, writing that Israel demands that Hapoel Beer-Sheva supporters be finally welcomed in Alkmaar. Diplomatic pressure is mounting, but the city still refuses to lift the ban, the site states.
Position maintained
Voetbalprimeur confirms the increase in diplomatic pressure ahead of the match between AZ and Hapoel Beer-Sheva. The outlet, relying on NOS, notes that the Israeli embassy has confirmed to Nieuwsuur the telephone contact with Alkmaar's mayor. Local authorities stand by their decision, with no source mentioning any possible change at this stage.
