French Police Use Water Cannon and Teargas On Poland Fans Ahead of Ukraine Game

French police have used a water cannon and teargas on Poland fans in Marseille, after outbreaks of fighting ahead of their Group C match against Ukraine.

A report from ABC suggests that there were violent clashes near the Stade Vélodrome early on Tuesday afternoon, with scuffles on a roundabout outside the stadium following a series of confrontations in the Old Port area earlier in the day. French law enforcement dispersed brawling supporters, making several arrests in the process.

According to The Mirror, fighting broke out between rival groups of Polish ultras. Poland fans had earlier marched through Marseille city centre, setting off flares and smoke bombs on the way and displaying a banner that read: "Defenders of European Culture".

''Defenders of European culture'' Polish corteo in Marseille today #POL pic.twitter.com/GsjVD3FrHJ
— From The Stands (@from_thestands) June 21, 2016

Footage has emerged that appears to show riot police charging at Poland fans, firing teargas canisters and using batons. One supporter can be seen bleeding from the head, as officers attempt to secure his handcuffs.

It is unclear whether rival Ukrainian fans were involved in the violence, or whether it was entirely limited to Polish supporters. Flares have subsequently been set off in the Poland end at the Stade Vélodrome, which could see the Polish Football Association incur a significant fine.