A fatal stabbing incident occurred as a brawl erupted between supporters of AEK Athens and Dinamo Zagreb prior to their Champions League qualifier, resulting in the death of a 22-year-old man, as confirmed by the police.

Tragedy struck as Greek football enthusiasts clashed with fans of Dinamo Zagreb, leading to the demise of one individual and leaving six others injured.

The confrontation transpired ahead of the Champions League third-qualifying round game between the two clubs on Monday evening.

According to The Times of Malta, the 22-year-old victim was transported from the Nea Filadelfeia stadium, located on the outskirts of Athens, to a nearby hospital, where he ultimately passed away.

Disturbingly violent clashes unfolded among the rival factions of supporters in the build-up to the Champions League match, scheduled to commence on Tuesday evening. In light of the situation, law enforcement reported that 83 individuals were apprehended subsequent to the incident.

Greek police said: "A serious incident took place outside the Nea Filadelfeia stadium. A young Greek man was stabbed to death, and six other injured people are in the hospital."

Dinamo Zagreb have added in an official statement: "GNK Dinamo strongly condemns the riots that took place last night in Athens, in which, according to the reports of the Greek police and Greek and Croatian media, rioters from Croatia were involved in an incident with fans of the Greek football club AEK.

"Such events are not in line with the values and ethics we promote as a club and community. We express our deep concern over this incident. Unfortunately, one person lost his life during the riots. GNK Dinamo would like to express its sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.

"Once again, we remind and invite all Dinamo fans not to travel to the match in Greece, considering that UEFA, in agreement with the police, decided that both matches will be played without visiting fans.

"GNK Dinamo remains committed to creating an environment in which love for sport is expressed in a positive way, through togetherness, respect, and cooperation."

In 2022, the Greek authorities raised the upper limit for penalties related to fan violence from six months to five years, prompted by another fatal stabbing incident that occurred during a football match.

Alkis Kampanos, a 19-year-old, lost his life in February 2022 during a clash involving fans of Aris Thessaloniki and PAOK.

Recent events saw seven individuals convicted of his murder last month, receive life sentences. Additionally, five others were handed sentences exceeding 19 years due to their involvement.

Disturbingly, this marked the third fatality stemming from fan violence within a span of three years, all taking place in Thessaloniki.