BIRMINGHAM, England (AP) – Aston Villa takes on Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Europa League on Thursday amid increased security, including more than 700 police officers.
“We are aware that there will be protests by a variety of groups on the day and our plans balance the right to protest with the duty to protect all communities in Birmingham.” the police said.
Various pro-Palestinian groups are expected to oppose the Israeli club’s visit.
Maccabi fans were banned from attending the game after West Midlands Police deemed the match at Villa Park high risk, citing violence and hate crimes that occurred when Maccabi Tel Aviv played Ajax. in Amsterdam last season.
The ban drew widespread criticism, including from the British Prime Minister. keir starmerwho said? wrong decision.
Nottingham Forest travel to Austria to face Sturm Graz after a 2-0 win over Porto under their new manager. Sean Dycheand the senseless rangers encounter Rome.
Denmark’s Midtjylland will be hoping for a perfect result against Celtic, while Lyon, who have three wins from three, will face Real Betis in Seville.
Fiorentina are in Germany to face Mainz in their first game under caretaker manager Daniele Garoppa after Viola are undefeated and at the bottom of the conference league, with coach Stefano Pioli being sacked two days ago. Serie A. Last season, Fiorentina won back-to-back runners-up in the conference league finals and advanced to the semifinals. Crystal Palace will host Alkmaar in another notable match.
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