Fireworks explode over Arsenal keeper David Raya’s head during Sporting clash in shocking safety breach

3 weeks ago 6

FIREWORKS exploded right above David Raya in shocking scenes during Arsenal’s Champions League clash at Sporting.

The Gunners blitzed into an early 2-0 lead thanks to goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz.

Sporting fans set off fireworks over David Raya’s head[/caption]

Ultras also lit green and white smoke bombs[/caption]

Flares lit up the home end at the Estadio Jose Alvalade[/caption]

The pyrotechnics went off after Arsenal went 2-0 up[/caption]

David Raya had not been threatened by Viktor Gyokeres or any of the Sporting players.

But on 25 minutes, various fireworks, flares and smoke bombs were set off over the Arsenal penalty area.

The pyrotechnics were not shown by the TNT Sport cameras but commentator Darren Fletcher referenced them.

And he was surprised the referee did not stop play and take the two teams off the field.

Videos quickly circulated on social media of the fireworks.

The clips showed the explosives being launched from the stand behind Raya and flashing into bursts of light.

Another revealed the magnitude of the green and white smoke wafting across the pitch.

Within minutes, clouds covered the pitch in Lisbon.

One supporter said: “Fireworks and flares set off aimed at Raya and the back four. That’s gotta be a ban surely.”

However, jubilant Arsenal fans inside the ground chanted: “We want more fireworks,” as they watched their side put on a spectacular performance.

SunSport has contacted Uefa for comment but it is likely the Portuguese club could land in hot water with the authorities over the safety breach.

Martinelli turned home with just seven minutes on the clock.

And Havertz doubled the visitors’ lead on 22 minutes, tapping in after fine work from Thomas Partey and Bukayo Saka.

Then Gabriel made it 3-0 with the final touch of the first half, thumping in yet another header from a dangerous inswinging Declan Rice corner.

However, Sporting pulled one back immediately after the break through Goncalo Inacio.

Saka, though, restored Arsenal’s three-goal lead from the penalty spot on 65 minutes before sub Leandro Trossard completed the 5-1 rout with an easy rebound header.

The referee decided not to stop play despite the safety concerns[/caption]

The Portuguese club could be in trouble with Uefa[/caption]

Trails of smoke poured down on the Arsenal penalty area[/caption]

The cloud hovered over the pitch[/caption]