Miami-Dade law enforcement agencies are ramping up security ahead of the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup match between Colombia and Portugal at Miami Stadium on Saturday.
Security Preparations
Officials say nearly 5 million ticket requests were made for the match, but only about 65,000 people can fit inside the stadium. Law enforcement agencies have been preparing for the game since the chaotic scenes that unfolded during the 2024 Copa America final between Argentina and Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium.
That match was delayed for more than an hour after out-of-control crowds breached security gates. More than two dozen people were arrested. Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz said her office has been working with the FBI and surrounding police departments to ensure there is no repeat of those events.
Security Measures
As part of the security plan, there will be no tailgating outside Miami Stadium. Officials have also widened the perimeter around the stadium so that only people with tickets can get close to the gates. Fans attending the match will still be required to pass through metal detectors, and officials say they will be keeping a close eye out for fake tickets and credentials.
Security efforts are not limited to the stadium. Fans can also expect a large police presence on Miami Beach and at FanFest at Bayfront Park. Authorities are also enforcing no-drone zones. Miami Police say they have intercepted 76 drones.
Officials are urging fans to monitor social media for updates on weather, detours, parking, safety information, and any changes related to the event.
Original reporting: NBC6 Miami — read the source article.
