Newcastle and Marseille fans clashed on the streets of France ahead of tonight’s Champions League match between the two teams. The Ligue 1 side take on the Premier League giants in a Europa League stage showdown this evening (Tuesday).
Newcastle take to the pitch at the Orange Velodrome Stadium looking to win their fourth Champions League title of the season, following wins over Union Saint Giroise, Benfica and Athletic Club. Meanwhile, the hosts are aiming for only their second win of the tournament, with their only win so far coming against Ajax at the end of September.
According to The Sun newspaper, there was a violent collision on the streets of Marseille. A group of Newcastle fans were also targeted by tear gas at a bar.
Online clips on social media showed scuffles in the streets, with fighting breaking out despite the presence of 1,000 local police.
And authorities will use drones to patrol Marseille’s city center and the area around the stadium to spot any signs of trouble before kick-off.
One clip on social media showed a large number of people punching and kicking each other. The video was then shared with the caption: “Streetfight Marseille vs Newcastle.”
Newcastle fans who arrived in Marseille on Monday night received a mixed reception, with some locals sharing drinks and singing songs with them, the Chronicle reported.
However, some traveling Magpies supporters were understood to have been targeted by a small group of Marseille fans.
Ahead of the trip to France, Newcastle told fans: “French police strongly advise supporters not to visit the Old Port (Vieux Port) area of Marseille during their stay.
“As a safety measure, we recommend that supporters do not wear any identification as a Newcastle United supporter or gather in large groups on the evening of Monday 24th November and throughout the day on Tuesday 25th November.”
The club added: “Street crime, including pickpocketing, can occur in Marseille. Supporters must remain vigilant, take sensible precautions and ensure they have valid travel insurance.”
“Supporters should not display flags or items in the club’s colors in the city of Marseille.”
Meanwhile, Newcastle United Supporters Club issued the following instructions to supporters ahead of kick-off:
“Kick-off is at 8pm GMT, 9pm local time. We want to continue our good run in the Champions League and build on our win against Man City at the weekend. If you’re in Marseille, see you later at Place Joiret.”
