Slavia Prague-Sparta Derby Abandoned After Fans Storm Pitch in Title-Clinching Moment

The Prague derby between Slavia Prague and Sparta Prague ended in chaos Saturday when hundreds of home fans stormed the pitch in stoppage time. Slavia led 3-2 at Fortuna Stadium, seconds from securing the Czech League title.

Supporters broke through security barriers and rushed the field, some waving lit flares as they headed for the visiting fans section. Pyrotechnics flew into the stands while players from both sides tried to exit.

Police stepped in to regain control and opened criminal proceedings over suspected rioting. Sparta goalkeeper Jakub Surovcik took a flare to the body from the crowd, officials said.

"For someone to run up and threaten me to my face during the match, accompanied by an assault, is absolutely unacceptable, and I will be pursuing this through legal channels," Surovcik wrote on social media.

The referee abandoned the game. Czech media said Sparta players, fearing for their safety, departed the stadium soon after on their team bus with a police escort.

Slavia chairman Jaroslav Tvrdik supported stopping play. "The opponent reported an attack on one or two players. I think it is legitimate that the match was ended," Tvrdik said. He called the incident "a disgrace."