Tensions erupt as Israel anthem booed at Nations League game in France

In order to avoid a recurrence of the violence that occurred in Amsterdam last week during a Europa League match involving Maccabi Tel Aviv, 4,000 French security personnel were stationed in and around the stadium, as well as on public transportation.

Some 100 Israel fans defied a warning from their government against travelling for sports events, sitting in a corner of the 80,000-capacity stadium which was barely a fifth full.

They waved yellow balloons and chanted “Free the Hostages” in reference to Israelis held in Gaza by Hamas militants.

Some boos and whistles were heard during the playing of the Israeli national anthem, which was then turned up on loudspeakers.

As the match got under way, there was a melee near the Israel fans’ section for several minutes, with people seen running and punches thrown. Stewards quickly formed a barrier.

It was unclear what had triggered the trouble.