Benfica fans slammed for launching flares towards Real Sociedad supporters during Champions League clash

Benfica fans were spotted throwing flares into a section of Real Sociedad supporters during their Champions League clash in Spain on Wednesday.

WHAT HAPPENED?
The away supporters launched flares from the top tier of the Reale Arena down into a section of the Sociedad fans below them.
Benfica captain Nicolas Otamendi attempted to calm the club's supporters, while Real Sociedad wrote on social media: "Shame on the fans of Benfica".

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THE BIGGER PICTURE
The incident occurred in the second half of the European clash when Sociedad were 3-1 up against their Portuguese visitors. Goals from Mikel Merino, Mikel Oyarzaal and Ander Barrenetxea had the Basque club 3-0 up after 21 minutes before Rafa Silva pulled one back in the second period.
DID YOU KNOW?
This is not the first time Benfica fans have resorted to such behaviour in the Champions League. Last season, a similar incident occurred during their quarter-final clash against Inter. As punishment, they were not allowed to have fans present for their first Champions League game of this campaign, which was, fittingly, against Inter.

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WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
UEFA will likely investigate the incident and Benfica could be punished for the conduct of their fans.

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