UK
Hungary football fans clash with police at England game
Clashes have broken out between Hungary football fans and police during England’s World Cup qualifier at Wembley Stadium.
The violence began after officers entered the away stand to make an arrest.
The Metropolitan Police said as they made the arrest – over alleged racist comments towards a steward – “minor disorder broke out involving other spectators”.
“Order was quickly restored and there have been no further incidents at this stage,” the force tweeted.
The incident happened shortly after the start of the game in northwest London.
Jeers were also heard at the away end as England players took the knee before kick-off.
Sky Sports’ Peter Smith, at Wembley, said: “Someone in the Hungary section held up an anti-taking-a-knee banner as the players made those symbolic gestures.
There was jeering as England players took the knee
“In contrast, the England supporters applauded the players’ action.”
An FA spokesperson said: “We are aware of an incident in the away section during tonight’s FIFA 2022 World Cup qualifier at Wembley Stadium.
“We will be investigating and will report the incident to FIFA.”
The trouble comes after monkey chants were aimed at England duo Raheem Sterling and Jude Bellingham in last month’s 4-0 win in Budapest.
FIFA ordered Hungary to play two home matches behind closed doors, one suspended for two years, following the incident.
Away fans let off a flare when Hungary took the lead
John Stones equalised for England
Tuesday evening’s match saw Hungary take the lead through a first-half penalty, with fans in the away end letting off a flare in celebration.
But manager Gareth Southgate’s men equalised through John Stones in the 37th minute. The match ended 1-1 after a goalless second half.
England are currently four points clear in their World Cup qualifying group, with just three fixtures left to play, but can’t guarantee their place in the Qatar tournament until next month.