A tense atmosphere surrounded the UEFA Nations League match between Israel and France at the Stade de France, as tensions flared in the stands following recent incidents of antisemitism.
The game, marked as “high risk,” followed violent clashes in Amsterdam before a Europa League match between Ajax and Maccabi Tel Aviv.
A heavy police presence was deployed to prevent a repeat of the violence witnessed in the Netherlands, ensuring relative calm during the game.
The match saw some Israeli fans booed during the national anthem, and within minutes of the whistle, a small altercation broke out between supporters.
Riot police were quickly on hand to control the situation, and the clash was swiftly dealt with by security personnel.
French authorities had been on high alert, with over 4,000 police officers deployed to the area.
France stands in solidarity against antisemitism, as violence erupts among Israel and France fans.Despite the unrest, the game continued without further violence, ending in a goalless draw.
French President Emmanuel Macron, alongside Prime Minister Michel Barnier and Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau, attended the match to show solidarity against antisemitism.
Macron emphasized that France would not tolerate violence or discrimination, making a strong statement on the importance of unity in the face of rising tensions.
Former French presidents François Hollande and Nicolas Sarkozy were also in attendance, highlighting the political significance of the event.
Despite the heavy security measures, including 600 Israeli fans transported under police escort, the attendance at the match was low, with fewer than 20,000 spectators.
Many Israeli fans expressed fear after the recent violence in Amsterdam, but some attended to show defiance against intimidation.
The situation was further complicated by a pro-Palestinian protest that took place near the stadium, with hundreds of demonstrators clashing with riot police.
As tensions escalated across Europe, the Stade de France match was a stark reminder of the complex intersection between sport, politics, and international conflicts.