Barcelona soccer celebrations turn violent
BARCELONA, Spain—Street parties in Barcelona celebrating the victory of the city’s soccer team in the Champions League final turned violent early Sunday and at least 11 people were hospitalized, according to local media reports.
Police said more than 80 people were arrested after revelers attacked officers with bottles, flares and other objects, and destroyed park benches and bus stops. The scuffles broke out hours after Barcelona beat Manchester United, 3-1, at Wembley Stadium in England on Saturday night. About 50,000 people flooded the streets of Barcelona to celebrate.
A police officer was among those hospitalized. AP photographs showed plainclothes police officers, who were wearing Barcelona jerseys to blend in with the crowds, making arrests.
More celebrations were expected Saturday afternoon when the team arrives in Barcelona to tour the city with the Champions League trophy. The festivities will culminate when fans receive their team at the 98,000-seat Camp Nou Stadium.
