150 involved in violent clash ahead of Metz-Saint-Étienne relegation playoff | OneFootball

Republicain Lorrain reports that there have been clashes between supporters of FC Metz and AS Saint-Étienne this afternoon ahead of the promotion/relegation playoff match.

In violent scenes before the game, around 150 supporters met behind the Metz train station to fight. The clash was quickly settled by the police who dispersed the crowd with tear gas and arrested at least five individuals. According to L’Équipe, there was the presence of FC Girondins de Bordeaux ultras among the ASSE fans.

L’Équipe have further reported that the police are prepared for further altercations outside the stadium with CRS forces mobilised and two water cannon trucks positioned outside the grounds to try and control and prevent any further violent altercations.

Ligue 1 the prize for Metz and Saint-Étienne

The high-stakes game sees promotion to Ligue 1 for ASSE and relegation down to the second tier for Metz on the line. Metz will need to overturn a 2-1 deficit if they are to survive the threat to their status in the top flight.

GFFN | Nick Hartland