Dramatic scenes in the stands: Nations League final overshadowed by the death of a fan

Dramatic scenes in the stands: Nations League final overshadowed by the death of a fan 09.06.2025, 05:32

A tragic incident occurred in the Nations League final between Spain and Portugal. A man fell from the stands in the stadium and later succumbed to his injuries. The police are investigating. The coaches of both teams offered moving words.

The Nations League final between Portugal and Spain at the Munich Football Arena was overshadowed by the death of a fan. A police spokesperson reported on Monday night that a man fell from the middle tier onto a staircase in the lower tier. The man died at the scene.

As always in such cases, the police have taken over the investigation, and the criminal investigation department is on site, the spokesperson said. Witnesses are being interviewed and videos are being reviewed. Currently, there is no evidence to suggest a tragic accident. According to police, the man is from the Garmisch-Partenkirchen district.

Eyewitnesses report fall

During the match, numerous emergency workers, stewards, and police officers rushed to the area of ​​the press box where the person had fallen. Horrified eyewitnesses called for additional rescue personnel. A tarpaulin was placed over the area where doctors were fighting for the fan's life.

During the thrilling extra time, the stars of Portugal and Spain apparently didn't notice this emergency. The same was true of the medal ceremony for Portugal's superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.

Moving coach words

Before the press conferences, the tragic news also reached the protagonists, who spoke about the dead supporter in their statements. "We mourn the loss of the deceased fan. This is extremely sad news," said Portugal national coach Roberto Martínez after the title win with a penalty shootout victory.

Spanish national coach Luis de la Fuente also remembered the fan after the final. "Before we start with the questions, I would like to express my condolences because a fan died in the stands today. My condolences to the family," the 63-year-old said at the beginning of the press conference.

In its statement, the European Football Union (UEFA) emphasized that its thoughts are with the family during this difficult time. Despite the efforts of emergency services, the person died shortly after midnight, the association said.