The Rome derby between Lazio and AS Roma has been given the go-ahead despite outbreaks of violence between supporters throughout the city.

A large number of incidents took place on Saturday evening as armed people, believed to be supporters of both teams, marauded around the streets of the Eternal City intent on causing trouble.

It has been reported that the violence could spark the postponement of this evening's match, but Rome's mayor Gianni Alemanno has said the game will proceed.

"The derby will be played, it would be a defeat for the city of Rome if it was cancelled," Alemanno is quoted as saying on Il Corriere dello Sport.

The match is scheduled to start at 7.45pm.