The PSNI has launched a public order investigation after violence involving rival supporters left one officer injured and forced a 14-minute halt to Derry City's Europa League first qualifying round tie against CSKA Sofia at the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium.

Disorder first broke out in the Bishop Street area around 6.45pm on 16 July, an hour before kick-off, as fans clashed. One officer required hospital treatment. Chief Inspector Graeme Craig confirmed a significant public safety operation was in place ahead of the fixture.

During the second half, further trouble erupted inside the ground. Families and young children sought refuge on the pitch to escape the disturbances. Police officers were deployed inside the stadium at the request of Derry City Football Club to restore order, allowing the match to resume. CSKA Sofia won 2-1, sealing a 5-3 aggregate victory.

It was the first time since the club joined the League of Ireland in 1985 that police entered the Brandywell venue. After the match a continued police presence remained in surrounding areas.

A Public Order Enquiry Team has been established to review all available footage and identify those involved. Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward, quoting reference 1502 of 16/07/26, and can be contacted on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers.

Political representatives in Derry condemned the scenes. Foyle MP Colum Eastwood described the events as disgraceful and said he would demand answers from the PSNI over the route taken by away fans. SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan praised stewards and noted that some Derry City supporters had invaded the pitch to confront the opposition goalkeeper. Deputy Mayor Catherine McDaid raised concerns about public safety decisions, while councillors Brian Tierney and Aisling Hutton called for accountability and lessons to be learned.