The derby of Kraków, holy war/święta wojna. Always one of the hottest fixtures in the Polish calendar. Cracovia fans hadn’t had the chance to support their team in the derby at Wisła’s stadium for a couple of years after some away bans. Last time this fixture was played with both fans at Wisła was December 2016.
Although this derby had less expectation than usual due to Wisła’s situation. Big financial problems and some conflict between fan groups and the club meant there would be no home choreography even for the derby and once again their sector ‘C’ was without any banners. Although the stadium was sold out for this match it didn’t have the same feel as some previous derbies with the lack of ‘Ultra’ scene from the hosts. Despite that Wisła Ultras did still have organised support for 90 minutes and most of their sector was in red which had a nice visual effect.
Cracovia fans received only 1550 tickets for the derby despite the away sector being at least 2000 seats, which is the normal allocation for this fixture. Cracovia were supported on the day by guests from ŁKS Lódż, who also brought with them a small banner and stolen Widzew colours.
The most interesting action of the match took place in the second half when Cracovia ultras made a pyro show which lasted for a few minutes. Something more was planned but unfortunately Cracovia ultras weren’t allowed to enter the stadium with their choreography.
After the match both clubs were fined for behaviour of the fans during the Derby. Consequence for Cracovia is they will once again miss the next 2 derbies played at Wisła’s stadium after using pyro and destroying some seats/furniture under the stadium.
There were certainly more interesting Kraków derbies in recent years but still, a derby is a derby. Thanks to Wisła for the accreditation and until next time!
Attendance: 28235 (1550 guests).