A meeting to discuss safety measures for Sunday’s crunch derby between arch rivals Galatasaray and Fenerbahce was held in Istanbul earlier today.

Here is what the authorities decided:

-       5% of Ali Sami Yen’s 23,257 seating capacity will be allocated to away fans.  This equates to 1,162 tickets.

-       Fenerbahce fans have been advised to avoid travelling across the Bosporus by ferry and use road transportation.

-       Individuals/fans without tickets will not be allowed to enter the stadium vicinity.

-       One person cannot be in possession of more than 2 pictures.  Anyone spotted with more than 2 tickets will be assumed a tout and taken into police custody.

-       There will be zero tolerance to tickets sold on the black market.  Anyone caught selling or buying will be heavily penalised.

-       4,000 police officers will be on duty and a further 250 security personnel will be provided by Galatasaray SK.

-       There will be a status update meeting at 10:00am local time on Match Day.

-       Stadium doors will open from 14:00 local time.

After the speaker’s public announcement Galatasaray representative Adnan Sezgin said, “Pre-planning ahead of this very big derby match is at least as important as the match itself.  Both teams want to win and we must accept the result whatever it may be.  I hope that we will be able to deliver our wants and thoughts and be the side that comes out on top.”

Fenerbahce representative Omer Temelli was next to comment, “The winning team will obtain a title winning advantage.  It will be a tough game as both teams are playing for the championship, I hope we will be the ones smiling come the final whistle.” 

The stage is set, now it's all up to the performers...