The UK police are set to investigate allegations that Greek police used riot shields and tear gas on England supporters ahead of the Nations League match against Greece at the Athens Olympic Stadium.
Officers from the United Kingdom Football Policing Unit (UKFPU), who were present at the match, worked with local authorities to de-escalate the situation, influencing a “change of tactics” during the unrest.
The Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) has called on fans to share their accounts of the incidents outside the stadium on Thursday. Some England supporters reported being “pushed” and subjected to aggressive policing methods, including the use of riot shields and tear gas.
Mark, a fan who attended the match, described the treatment as “completely unnecessary” in a post on X (formerly Twitter), but noted that such experiences have sadly become expected when following England abroad. Another supporter alleged that police funneled hundreds of fans, including children, into a few entrances, leading to crowding and aggressive tactics.
Free Lions, the FSA’s fan embassy team, expressed frustration over the events, stating:
“Despite being told how things would operate in advance, to see the exact opposite occur in some cases, and to see the treatment of our fans by local police using shields and tear gas to do something as simple as rearrange a queue, is so incredibly frustrating.”
The organisation added that significant work is still needed to prevent fans from being placed in “unjustifiably dangerous situations.”
In a statement to BBC Sport, the UKFPU acknowledged the difficulties some fans faced when trying to enter the stadium and confirmed an investigation is underway. The inquiry will be conducted in partnership with the Football Association (FA) and the FSA.
The FA is also gathering evidence to determine the circumstances surrounding the incidents. European football’s governing body, UEFA, has been informed.
A Dark Shadow on a Positive Night
Approximately 3,500 England fans travelled to Athens for the sold-out fixture. While the England team delivered a strong performance on the pitch, the events off the field have raised serious concerns.
Free Lions summarised the sentiment, stating:
“On a night where we had a great result on the pitch, there is still clearly so much needed to do off it to ensure our supporters aren’t put in unjustifiably dangerous situations.”
The outcome of the investigation will likely shape future discussions on crowd management and fan safety at international football matches.
