France-Israel: “All these police officers, it’s reassuring, but it’s a little sad! »

In memory of being an unconditional supporter of the Blues during matches in France and abroad, Yoann, 35, has never been searched so much before being able to sit in the stands. “I just got checked three times! Even in Germany for the Euro last summer, it wasn’t like that, it was really psychosis! », notes this Lorraine before crossing the gates at the entrance to the stadium and having to show his credentials again. Very high risk encounter, exceptional means.

All the businesses, in particular the brasseries and fast-food restaurants around the stadium, have lowered the curtain. The official Stade de France store is closed. Shortly after 5 p.m., only ticketed spectators can access the esplanade. They are strictly prohibited from entering the arena with a bag, regardless of its size.

When the bus of Israeli players arrived under an impressive escort, spectators were not allowed to approach the railing to see them. Jean-Baptiste, member of the “Baroudeurs du sport” supporters association, understands the massive presence of the police but considers the atmosphere a little heavy. “We tell ourselves that the supporter is considered a threat, we are patted down as if we were dangerous.”

Scuffles in the first period

Arriving on the square under very close surveillance after taking the RER, Claude, 70, a Frenchman of Jewish faith, drapes himself in an Israeli standard. “Now I can, I feel safe!” I am here in support of Israel to assert our right to live. It is out of solidarity with this country, the Jews of France and around the world because we are a united people,” insists this Parisian.

No excess will be observed before the match. But despite all the precautions, scuffles broke out in a stand where French and Israeli supporters were side by side. A fight led to a crowd movement. The scene is confused and punctuated by screams, then whistles.

A witness told Le Parisien that he saw hooded people running towards the group of French supporters suspected of “provocations”. Israeli supporters, located outside the dedicated parking lot located on the other side of the Stade de France, called to “release the hostages”, referring to the people kidnapped during the attacks which hit the Hebrew state on October 7, 2023.

The stewards then intervened to separate, via a double security cordon, the two groups involved in the confrontation. A video also shows police officers bursting into the stands. Calm gradually returned. The second period passed peacefully.