Aston Villa supporters clash with police ahead of Europa League match
Disturbing footage emerged on Thursday evening showing French police wielding batons against Aston Villa supporters outside Lille’s Stade Pierre-Mauroy ahead of the Europa League last-16 encounter, reports BritPanorama.
The violent scenes unfolded as supporters attempted to enter the stadium, with the confrontation quickly escalating into chaos. Amidst the disorder, one Villa fan could be heard shouting “No” whilst another warned “You’ll get nicked” in an apparent attempt to prevent the situation from deteriorating further.
Police and stewards were subsequently filmed hauling a metal gate shut, blocking a substantial group from accessing that entrance despite many holding valid tickets. Supporters who had already cleared initial security checks found themselves trapped behind barriers, prompting angry shouts of “let them in” and “you’re an absolute disgrace.”
At least one individual was knocked to the ground during the melee, and a fan in a wheelchair was also visible in the distressing footage. An account that posted the video alleged that some supporters had been tasered during the confrontation.
One fan later wrote online: “Two old boys got whacked with truncheons simply for being in a queue.” Former Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor has demanded an investigation into how English supporters are treated during UEFA competitions, describing the incidents as deeply troubling.
Speaking on talkSPORT, the club legend highlighted a stark double standard in how visiting fans are handled across Europe. “What annoys me is that we get a bad name, English fans, when they go abroad,” Agbonlahor said. “But I’m sure the Villa fans just want to get into the game.” He expressed particular concern for younger supporters, noting: “Kids would have been there. Going through that experience is not nice.”
Despite the troubling scenes outside the ground, the away end eventually filled with Villa supporters who witnessed their side secure a crucial advantage in the tie. Ollie Watkins found the net on the hour mark with an unusual headed finish, giving the Midlands club a 1-0 victory to take back to Birmingham.
The slender lead provides Villa with a platform to defend when they host Lille at Villa Park on Thursday, March 19th. Victory in the second leg would see Unai Emery’s men progress to the Europa League quarter-finals, offering some consolation during a difficult run of Premier League form.
