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    I was in the heart of PSG’s celebrations in Paris – it was a war zone with yobs throwing bottles and launching fireworks

    OUTSIDE the Parc des Princes last night, it was carnage. Absolute carnage.No sooner had the final whistle blown in Munich – as Paris Saint-Germain sealed a record-breaking 5-0 Champions League Final win over Inter Milan – the French capital erupted in celebration.Thousands of PSG supporters hit the streets after their team’s Champions League triumphCredit: GettyThe Paris sky was lit up by fireworks as thousands came out to celebrateCredit: GettyFlares were lit by PSG ultras before things began to spiral out of controlCredit: GettySupporters partied well into the night after the 5-0 victoryCredit: GettyThose who live within a few-mile radius of the club’s home ground had prepared for the worst, sensibly boarding up their shops and cafes in anticipation of mass trouble, and it proved to be a wise decision.Tens of thousands of people, mostly young men wearing PSG shirts, sprinted away from the club’s football ground and once they were outside of the wide police security perimeter, chaos ensued.Motorists had to take evasive action coming off the motorway slip-roads as people dangerously spilled into the street, throwing flares into their path.Soon, the traffic was completely stopped around Porte d’Auteuil as supporters started celebrating in the street – and even jumped on stationary cars.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLCoaches were blocked from moving forward and it was a surprise nobody was run over in the bedlam and disorder.One large truck did try to drive its way through the mayhem but dozens of blokes simply hitched a ride on the back.The air around the ground filled with the sound of air horns and revving motorbikes.Red and white flares were lit by bare-chested fans who either had scarves around their faces or dodgy cigarettes in their mouths.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKSmoke bombs were let off and some PSG Ultras brought along firework GUNS, shooting the pyrotechnics high into the Parisian sky at a frequent rate.Though generally it was a mood of celebration and jubilation – it was the club’s first Champions League success after all – there were some inevitable casualties.HISTORIC scenes as PSG demolish Inter Milan in record-breaking Champions League final I saw one woman hurt and needing attention from friends while others cowered for cover as fans rushed forward.Ambulances were called to the area and so, too, were fire trucks.And your SunSport correspondent had to sprint away for safety at one point when some of the remnants of the fireworks landed too close for his comfort.The streets around the Parc des Princes, not far from where the Roland Garros tennis takes place, are in a well-heeled area, an influential region similar to Kensington and Chelsea in West London.Yet anyone living in nearby expensive flats, who had been hoping to get to sleep early, would have soon realised their misgivings as the partying went on for hours, and long after 1am.Those who were walking back to the Metro station after watching Novak Djokovic’s win on Court Philippe-Chatrier must have thought they were walking in a war zone.Champions League final REACTION – PSG 5-0 InterMost of the yobs would not have lived in the local area themselves but they saw this European success as an excuse to break the law and cause disruption.Some reckless parents even brought along their small children when really they should have all been at home.What was surprising was the lack of a police presence to control the lawless situation.There were reports of problems on the Champs-Élysées but in the well-to-do 16th arrondissement there was no police management or control.Almost as if they thought, well we have our perimeter, that is all we are doing, but away from that, you are on your own, lads…Local businesses are used to large numbers of people whenever PSG play at home but this was different – this was on a scale that locals had never seen before.Fireworks were fired towards police as clashes broke out on the streetsCredit: GettyTear gas was also fired as fans took over the streets in the French capitalCredit: GettyIn any other situation, these scenes of unlawfulness would not be acceptable but because it is football, the authorities tend to shrug it off as what fans do to celebrate.As someone who has reported on football matches for more than 23 years – and was a season-ticket holder at West Ham back in the 1990s – I’m not easily intimidated by these situations or by rowdy football crowds.Yet you had to keep your wits about you as fireworks constantly went off and fans gathered in large numbers, smoking weed and sitting on bus stops.I had sympathy for those families trapped in their cars as they were surrounded by groups of young men.It could have all easily and quickly turned very nasty – imagine what it would have been like had Inter had won the final?Read More on The SunOne or two individuals did throw bottles at the odd police van trying to drive through the streets. Shards of glass were scattered all over the pavements.And inevitably, some poor souls will be the ones clearing up all the mess this morning left by the hooligans. More

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    PSG fans ‘tear gassed’ by riot police as violence erupts on streets of Paris after Champions League final win

    CHAOS has erupted in Paris with riot police reportedly being forced to brandish batons and deploy tear gas to disperse football fans.Jubilant PSG supporters started celebrating their first ever Champions League trophy midway through the clash with Inter Milan after easily seeing off the Italian side.Thousands of jubilant fans celebrated early as PSG easily defeated Inter Milan in the Champions League finalCredit: AFPAnti-riot police officers arrest a person as Paris Saint-Germain supporters celebrate in the streetsCredit: AFPPolice officers look on as fire is seen on the Champs Elysees in ParisCredit: ReutersFana packed out the Parc des Princes as they let off flares as part of their seismic partyCredit: ReutersThousands of supporters gathered across the city on Saturday night to watch the game as many packed into the Parc des Princes stadium.But disturbing footage online showed how during the final Paris was plunged into trouble.Dozens of fires broke out across the capital with several intense safety operations launched by French firefighters.Video appeared to show bikes and mattresses set alight near to the football ground with thick black smoke billowing through the night sky.read more in PSG vs InterEven before half-time – with PSG already two goals up – police in riot gear were seen sprinting towards groups of trouble-making fans.Some were seen launching bottles and letting off fireworks and flares as they were pushed back by cops. Concerns over safety in the French capital ramped up as the final drew closer.PSG’s official club shop was barricaded shut for the day as part of beefed-up security protocols to avoid potential trouble.Most read in FootballIn footage shared by Agence de Presse, the Ligue 1 champions’ official store on the Champs-Elysees can be seen being boarded up.They claim that this measure has been taken due to “looting fears”.Champions League travel chaos erupts as fans block train and throw rocks and tear gas is deployed on boardThe off the pitch battles came despite a major security operation and a ring of steel being mobilised around Paris.Around 5,400 police officers were on duty with cops shutting down the traffic near the football ground.Across in Munich, where the final was being played, even more fan clashes erupted.Dramatic footage pre-match showed fights kicking off between rival supporters as they made their way to the match on public transport.Some were even spotted throwing stones at each other at Fröttmaning station near the Allianz Arena, Bild has reported.A trash can seen on fire as Paris Saint-Germain supporters celebrate the UEFA Champions LeagueCredit: AFPMuch of Paris was covered in a thick smoke from the celebrationsCredit: AFPArmed riot police took to the streets of Paris to disperse rowdy PSG fansCredit: ReutersPSG won the Champions League for their first time after a record-breaking 5-0 win.Achraf Hakimi capped off a stunning move to give the French giants the lead after just 12 minutes.Moments later, Desire Doue’s heavily deflected strike doubled PSG’s advantage as Inter made a horror start to the final.The teenager marked his Player of the Match performance with another goal in the second half to give PSG a healthy 3-0 lead.Khvicha Kvaratskhelia got on the scoresheet with just over a quarter of an hour remaining as the French giants went four in front.Read More on The SunAcademy star Senny Mayulu added a fifth in injury time as PSG became the first team to win the Champions League or European Cup final by a five-goal margin.Luis Enrique’s side ultimately laid waste to Inter as they had done to four Premier League clubs en route to this glorious Bavarian night. Fans were seen crowded into disrupted trains in Munich and kicking offCredit: TNT SportsPSG manager Luis Enrique with the Champions League trophyCredit: Shutterstock Editorial More

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    Illegal immigrant who swiped £250k from Jenson Button’s wife is jailed after CCTV showed shocking heist

    A CAREER criminal who swiped £250,000 from Jenson Button’s wife has been jailed after the terrifying heist was caught on camera.Mourad Aid, 41, stole Brittny’s carry-on, which contained lavish jewellery and designer handbags, from St Pancras station.Jenson Button’s wife was robbed at St Pancras stationCredit: GettyMourad Aid stole a red suitcase containing £250k of goodsCredit: British Transport PoliceBrittny later said she did not want to return to the UKAid has been jailed for two yearsCredit: BTPFootage showed Formula One driver Button stood with his back turned as he helped a chauffeur load his belongings into a vehicle.Aid was then filmed running through the busy station and past the British Library while wheeling the red suitcase.He has now been two years and four months after pleading guilty to theft at Westminster Magistrates’ court.The Algerian national will be automatically deported once he has served his sentence, Mail Online reports.Read more newsJPs were told Aid came to the UK in 2019 on a six-month tourist visa but stayed illegally when it expired.He has never applied for asylum or appeared to have legal employment, it was said.Brittny revealed the bag had more than £250,000 worth of items, including countless sentimental objects and antique jewellery from her wedding and the birth of her daughter.The suitcase also contained two Kelly bags, which together are worth a whopping £70,000.Most read in MotorsportEx-Playboy model Brittny said she would normally not carry such sentimental items but was travelling for a Valentine’s trip to Paris.Many of the stolen goods were listed online following the theft – although these were later tracked down.Brittny, now an interior designer, says the experience left her “traumatised” and cast a dark cloud over their getaway.She also revealed the couple have “no interest” in flying back to the UK from California, where they currently live.The mum added: “It definitely was shocking that I just didn’t think.”I’m normally pretty cautious when I’m out in public and travelling, but I just didn’t think that there were gangs literally just waiting for people and watching.”Aid was arrested by plain clothes officers on February 17 – four days after the couple were targeted.British Transport Police Detective Sergeant Marc Farmer said: “This was a brazen and opportunistic theft by a man who took advantage of the victim and her husband having their backs turned for a matter of seconds while loading up their car with luggage.Read More on The Sun”He was able to quickly swipe the suitcase without them even noticing, which hammers home just how sneaky these sorts of criminals really are and why it’s so important to keep one eye on your belongings at all times.”While the incident wasn’t captured on CCTV, we were still able to trace Aid through other investigative opportunities, and he was arrested by our plain clothes officers just days later.”The thief has been jailed for two yearsCredit: British Transport PoliceJenson and Brittny had returned from a tripCredit: brittny/Instagram More

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    Inside vast Champions League security op with 5,000 cops, riot units & ring of steel…& that’s NOT even in host Munich

    A MAJOR security operation with riot cops and a ring of steel is being mobilised for the final PSG vs Inter Milan Champions League showdown – but it is 500 miles away from the host city. Security officials are on high alert as thousands of fans are expected to flock to Munich to witness the European football season’s epic climax. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) supporters set off flares and wave a team logo flag as they gather ahead of the UEFA Champions League semi-finalCredit: AFPAnti-riot police officers stand guard during a football match in FranceCredit: AFPInter fans celebrate after a match winCredit: GettyPolice cars in front of the Allianz Arena in Munich where tomorrow’s finale will take placeCredit: GettyBut a separate security operation will take place in Paris, where footie fans are equally charged up as they continue to cheer for their home team PSG. The French capital will deploy 5,400 police officers for Saturday’s final game, Paris police chief Laurent Nunez said. Although the match will be held in Munich, a PSG victory would be expected to spark celebrations in the club’s home city, which could escalate into disturbances.Just like the violent clashes that broke out in the streets of Paris several hours after the semi-final match between PSG and Arsenal.read more in football To tackle this, police units will be deployed alongside “mobile gendarmes”, which are French mobile police units. Many of the officers will be on the watch around the capital’s Champs-Élysées avenue, where fans are expected to take to the streets if their home team lifts the cup tomorrow. Cops are expected to shut down the traffic near the venue, and constant camera surveillance will be activated. Security will also be beefed up around Parc des Princes, PSG’s home stadium on the southwestern edge of the city, the Paris police chief added. Most read in Champions LeagueNunez said: “We have a large network throughout the metropolitan area. So yes, a massive deployment in the capital and its metropolitan area with 5,400 personnel mobilised. “We have called up personnel from the police headquarters, and the Minister of State has placed numerous mobile forces, CRS [riot police] and mobile gendarmes at my disposal. Everyone is on deck.” French riot police ‘tear gas entire streets’ as fans ‘throw fireworks’ in chaotic scenes before PSG vs ArsenalShocking footage from just hours after the PSG vs Arsenal match showed a car ploughing into a crowd of football fans before being torched. The burning wreck of the vehicle can be seen on Rue Christophe-Colomb, close to the Champs-Elysées.Young PSG supporters were seen confronting riot police.There were reports that some targeted even shops and banks, leaving the windows smashed. A Paris Police Prefecture spokesperson said at least “43 people were arrested during the PSG victory celebrations”, mainly for public order offences.Meanwhile, cops in the host city of Munich are also bracing up for the high-stakes final game. An increased police presence is expected throughout the city, with more than 2,000 special police officers deployed around key areas. PSG supporters set off flares as they gather ahead of the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg football matchCredit: AFPGerman police at a Bundesliga match betweenCredit: GettyInter Milan fans celebrate winning Serie A in 2021Credit: ReutersAerial view of Avenue des Champs-Élysées in Paris.Credit: GettyThis include the massive Allianz Arena stadium, where the match will take place and the Olympic Park, where thousands of fans will gather for a free public viewing. A German police spokesperson said: “It is to be expected that high-risk individuals will be here. But we are well prepared.”The Italian fans in particular have a certain potential. Therefore, the match has been assessed as a high-risk match.” Units of Bavarian riot police will be deployed to tackle any chaos. Hawk-eyed undercover cops will comb through the area while mobile and fixed barriers in different positions will be built throughout. The barriers are designed to help prevent car rammings similar to the one witnessed in Liverpool last week during a Premier League victory parade, which left 79 people injured.There has been a spate of violence in recent weeks surrounding big football matches. Shocking scenes of violence erupted in Poland just hours before the Conference League final between Chelsea and Real Betis kicked off.British and Spanish football fans were seen brawling in the streets, launching bottles and smoke grenades and even being pushed back by police water cannons. The ugly scenes have kicked off mainly near the fanzone in Wroclaw – where the final was held – with riot police forced to defuse the violence.Just hours before kickoff, the fighting spilt over when fans started kicking and throwing flares into each other’s camps.Fans clash in ugly scenes in Poland before the Europa Conference FinalCredit: AFPSupporters were seen hurling punches, kicking, launching bottles and smoke grenadesCredit: AFPTottenham Hotspur fans in the streets of BilbaoCredit: ReutersTables and chairs were thrown to the floorCredit: EPASoon, chairs were hurtling through the air as the fans squared up to each other before police, some armed with guns, came to separate them.Cops were even forced to hurl powerful water cannons at Chelsea supporters, according to footage on social media.Last week, Bilbao launched its biggest security operation to maintain law and order during the ultimate Spurs vs Manchester United showdown.Spanish security officials were on high alert and had deployed a ring of steel to fortify the San Mames Stadium as brawls had broken out and streets had been rashed ahead of the final.Shocking images showed Brit fans tearing down traffic lights, vomiting in the city’s streets and chucking bottles, vapes and cans around. Local media reported that some footie fanatics have become “difficult to control”.PSG and Inter Milan are both chasing the grandest prize in Europe, but only one of them can go home with the riches.Read More on The SunLuis Enrique’s side saw off Arsenal in the semi-final, having already knocked out Liverpool and Aston Villa in the round of 16 and quarter-final respectively.Simone Inzaghi managed one of the most thrilling ties of all-time against Barcelona, with the Italians knocking out the La Liga winners 7-6 on aggregate.Champions League 2025 prize moneyINTER and PSG are guaranteed to take home at least £15.9m, but the runner-up prize will not appeal to either of them.For winning the competition, either of the pair could walk home with £21.9mWinner: £21.5mRunner-up: £15.9mSemi-finalist: £12.9mQuarter-finalist: £10.7mRound of 16: £9.4mLeague stage qualification: £1.7mLeague stage win: £1.8mLeague stage draw: £590,000 More

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    Maradona homicide trial COLLAPSES after glam judge appeared in glitzy doc about case over football icon’s death

    THE homicide trial of footballing icon Diego Maradona’s medical team has officially been cancelled.The trial was said to be on the brink of collapse just 24 hours ago after a glam judge appeared in a glitzy documentary about the ongoing case.Argentine former football star Diego Maradona died in 2020Julieta Makintach – dubbed the ‘judge of God’ – appeared in a glitzy documentary about the ongoing caseCredit: ClarinJudge Makintach – one of the three presiding judges – has since resigned in the face of allegations of an ethical breachCredit: ReutersJulieta Makintach – dubbed the “judge of God” – featured in a trailer for the six-part mini-series which was embarrassingly played to the court.News broadcasts of footy legend Maradona’s death were also featured in the trailer, as well as an excerpt of an emergency call asking for an ambulance.It ended with Makintach preparing documents at a desk prior to the trial.The bizarre footage suggests unauthorised recordings were shot inside the courtroom, which constitutes a breach of judicial rules.read more in MaradonaIt is unclear how the footage was captured. The trailer preview was one of several pieces of evidence seized by cops in raids last week which left the trial suspended.It has now reportedly been designated as “null and void” by the Third Criminal Court of San Isidro, reports Clarin.Judge Makintach has also since resigned in the face of the allegations.Most read in SoccerThis has left the case with just two remaining judges in Maximiliano Savarino and Verónica Di Tommaso.Mr Savarino announced the cancelled trial today as he blasted Makintach’s actions.Maradona homicide trial BEGINS as his medical team accused of fatal negligenceHe said: “The trial was well conducted by all of us except for one person who was sidelined.”Before adding: We believe the case should be heard in another court.”When the decision to cancel the trial was read out, the daughters of Maradona, Dalma and Gianinna, broke down in tears.The trailer caused such a national outcry that Makintach said on Tuesday that she had “no choice” but to resign from the proceedings.Diego Maradona’s daughters Gianina Maradona (L) and Dalma Maradona attend the trial for their father’s deathCredit: EPADoctor Leopoldo Luque attends the trialThe judges stated that there would be a new trial, but did not indicate when that would occur. In addition, new judges will selected via a lottery.The trial began on March 11 and dozens of witnesses had already testified. It was expected to conclude in the summer, but now that could be a new starting point.”I trust we could have a sentence by the end of the year,” said Fernando Burlando, an attorney for Maradona’s daughters Dalma and Gianinna Maradona.The family accused the medical team of failing to provide appropriate care for Maradona, 60, after his surgery for a hematoma that formed between his skull and brain. The surgery was performed in early November and he died weeks later during his recovery at a private home.The seven defendants all deny the charges and claim that Maradona fought against them during the recovery period.The former doctor of Maradona, Nancy ForliniCredit: AFPJulio Rivas, lawyer of Leopoldo Luque, the personal doctor of MaradonaCredit: ReutersThe Argentinian legend- considered one of the world’s greatest ever football players – had been recovering at his home in Buenos Aires from surgery on a brain blood clot when he tragically died.He suffered a heart attack aged 60.Seven members of the legend’s medical team were then placed under investigation over his death and are now being prosecuted for negligent homicide.Those responsible for his medical care face prison terms between eight and 25 years if convicted of homicide with possible intent.The charges relate to their decision to allow him to recover from major surgery at home, and the conditions of his care.They deny the charges.The medical team on trial includes a neurosurgeon, a doctor and a night nurse.Read More on The SunThe defendants have claimed Maradona refused any further treatment and should have stayed home for longer following his operation.Gianinna claimed her father was kept in “a dark, ugly and lonely” place and that his carers were more interested in money than his welfare.Portrait of Argentina’s star midfielder Diego Maradona in 1986Credit: AFP More

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    Maradona trial on brink of COLLAPSE after glam judge appears in glitzy doc about ongoing case over football icon’s death

    THE trial of late Argentine football superstar Diego Maradona’s medical team is on the brink of collapse after a glam judge appeared in a glitzy documentary about the ongoing case.Julieta Makintach – dubbed the “judge of God” – recused herself after a trailer for the six-part mini-series was embarrassingly played to the court. Julieta Makintach – dubbed the ‘judge of God’ – recused herselfCredit: ClarinOne clip shows her going up in a lift in what appears to be a courthouseCredit: P14Makintach arrives at court for a hearing in the trial of health professionals accused of negligence in the death of soccer star Diego MaradonaCredit: APArgentine former football star Diego Maradona died in 2020Credit: AFPIt emerged that Makintach, 47, had been shooting the series called Divine Justice about the case, potentially breaking a string of ethics rules.The shocking preview begins with Makintach strutting through the entrance of what seems to be a court house in high heels as she takes the lift to the upper floors.News broadcasts of footy legend Maradona’s death are also featured in the trailer, as well as an excerpt of an emergency call asking for an ambulance.It concludes with Makintach preparing documents at a desk.The bizarre footage suggests unauthorised recordings were shot inside the courtroom, which constitutes a breach of judicial rules.According to a script, the mini-series would follow Makintach as she “reconstructs the death of Maradona and certain painful milestones of his life related to abandonment.”The trailer preview was one of the various pieces of evidence seized by cops in raids last week as the trail was suspended.Tuesday’s hearing was marked by insults, recriminations, shouting and tears.Most read in SoccerIn a bitter exchange, prosecutor Patricio Ferrari accused Makintach of behaving “like an actress and not a judge.”He said: “[Makintach] spoke about Maradona, the trial, how it was unfolding.Diego Maradona’s daughter fights back tears as she says family live in fear of mafia ahead of trial into his death “She has been completely influenced by her leading role, by the centrality of her figure.”She lied to our faces for three months. I demand that the court recuse judge Makintach.”As the trailer was played, defence lawyer Rodolfo Baque jumped out of his chair to shout “trash” at the judge.The late footballer’s daughter Gianinna Maradona tried to calm him before she and Maradona’s former partner, Veronica Ojeda, both began to sob.Makintach sat with her head bowed, biting her lip and eventually said she had “no choice” but to recuse herself as one of the case’s three justices.Her removal is an embarrassment for Argentina’s judicial system and could yet derail a trial being watched by football fans worldwide.Maradona – considered one of the world’s greatest ever football players – had been recovering at his home in Buenos Aires from surgery on a brain blood clot when he tragically died of a heart attack aged 60.Seven members of the legend’s medical team are being prosecuted for negligent homicide over his death in November 2020.She also struts in her high heels in the trailerCredit: P14The trailer preview was one of the various pieces of evidence seized by cops in raids last week as the trail was suspendedCredit: Clarin Judges Veronica Di Tommaso, Maximiliano Savarino and Julieta Makintach attend the first day of soccer legend Diego Maradona’s death trialCredit: ReutersPortrait of Argentina’s midfielder Diego Maradona in 1986Credit: AFPThose responsible for his medical care face prison terms between eight and 25 years if convicted of homicide with possible intent.The charges relate to their decision to allow him to recover from major surgery at home, and the conditions of his care.They deny the charges.The medical team on trial includes a neurosurgeon, a doctor and a night nurse.The defendants have claimed Maradona refused any further treatment and should have stayed home for longer following his operation.Gianinna Maradona has claimed her father was kept in “a dark, ugly and lonely” place and that his carers were more interested in money than his welfare.The court will decide on Thursday whether the trial will go ahead or be scrapped and then restarted.Some of the plaintiffs have called for a new trial, saying they felt proceedings have been tainted by scandal.The lawyer for Maradona’s ex-partner Ojeda said that “everyone now feels that this is compromised,” adding that it’s “healthiest to start over from scratch”.Glam Makintach denied being paid for the documentary and said that she had given “an interview to a childhood friend about the justice system”.Makintach added: “That material was raw, it was intimate. It was on a Sunday at 5pm. Does that give it the label of forbidden, hidden, illicit?”According to Argentinian media, prosecutor Ferrari said: “On Sunday March 9, before the trial began, Makintach entered the building with six people.”And if there is a script and a trailer, it wasn’t just an interview.Read More on The Sun”There were photos, footage. There was no authorisation for this irregular entry.”All the aggravating circumstances clearly exist that demonstrate the loss of independence and impartiality of the member summoned to this trial.”In 2019, Gimnasia y Esgrima team coach Diego Armando Maradona gestures to supporters as he leaves the field after an Argentina First Division Superliga football matchCredit: AFP More

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    Moment Chelsea & Real Betis fans CLASH in Poland launching bottles & smoke grenades hours before Europa Conference final

    VIOLENCE has broken out again on the streets of Poland between Chelsea and Real Betis fans in ugly scenes ahead of their Conference League final tonight.Supporters were seen hurling punches and kicks, launching bottles and smoke grenades near the fanzone in Wroclaw with riot police forced to defuse the violence.Fans clash in ugly scenes in Poland ahead of the Europa Conference FinalCredit: AFPSupporters were seen hurling punches, kicking, launching bottles and smoke grenadesCredit: AFPFans hurled flares at each other on the streetSome officers were deployed with guns to quell the violenceCredit: ReutersTables and chairs were thrown to the floorCredit: EPAThe ugly scenes continues after similar violence yesterday when tear gas was needed to separate the hostile fans. One Spaniard was arrested and police are attempting to identify more fans involved in a scuffle last night.Betis fans are looking forward to their first ever major European final, with tensions boiling over into a full on brawl this afternoon.Supermarket shelves are running dry of beer and pubs are out of pint glasses as fans soak up the atmosphere ahead of the final.And six hours before kickoff tonight, the violence spilled over when fans started kicking and throwing flares into each other’s camps.Soon, chairs were hurtling through the air as the fans squared up to each other before police, some armed with guns, came to separate them.The fans were already brawling on the streets a full 24 hours before the match as riot police with tear gas were deployed yesterday to force the warring supporters apart.Footage posted to social media showed a series of fierce clashes in cobbled streets outside the city’s bars and restaurants.Most read in FootballShocking moment Chelsea fans brawl & throw glasses as violence erupts in Poland ahead of Conference League finalIn one clip, a group of around five young men were seen smashing chairs and hurling glasses at another group sheltering in the canopy of a building.In the window is a large blue flag which reads: “London only”, indicating it could be a spot designated for Chelsea fans.Another clip from elsewhere shows two sides lobbing missiles at one another from the cover of two different pubs.More than 70,000 fans are expected to descend on the picturesque town of Wroclaw to watch The Blues try to take the title tonight.Last week’s Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur was also marred by clashes between supporters ahead of the match in Bilbao.Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said: “Zero tolerance for violence on our streets!”I thank the police for their decisive actions against the hooligans in Chelsea and Betis shirts in Wroclaw. We warn you: if necessary, the police will be even more ruthless today!”Fans of the London side will be hoping their team isn’t distracted by the drama – with the honour of being the first-ever club to win all three European titles on the line.Chelsea booked their place by defeating Swedish side Djurgardens IF 5-1 on aggregate earlier this month.Earlier, head coach Enzo Maresca got a shock when his banned winger Mykhailo Mudryk arrived in the city unannounced – and wearing a Chelsea kit.Mudryk is currently suspended from playing after testing positive for the banned substance meldonium while on international duty in November.Chelsea fans have descended in the Polish city for the European finalCredit: ReutersChairs were hurling through the skyOne man was seen getting attacked with blood pouring down his faceCredit: AFPThe fans were already brawling on the streets a full 24 hours before the matchCredit: ReutersPolice positioned themselves between the hostile fansCredit: AFPAfter missiles were launched into the neighbouring camps, Polish police managed to separate the fansCredit: ReutersThe ugly scenes continues after similar violence yesterday when tear gas was needed to separate the hostile fansCredit: ReutersTables were launched in the violent scenes hours before the matchCredit: ReutersMen were seen fleeing as police came armed with truncheonsCredit: AFPThe streets were strewn with litter and chairsA fan poses in front of police amid the high tensionsCredit: ReutersThe Blues will be playing Champions League football next season after they secured a top-five finish in the Premier League.While the Spaniards have already qualified for the Europa League with a 6th placed finish in LaLiga.This means the two sides are just playing for the right to win a European trophy – and the cash prize that comes with it.Read More on The SunUefa have revealed that the winners of this year’s Conference League will take home a staggering £5.9million.While the runners-up are set to pocket approximately £3.37m.A chair can be seen flying through the airCredit: XGroups lobbed missiles at each other across the squareCredit: x
    Police spray jets of tear gas at Chelsea fansCredit: APChelsea fans were out in force on Tuesday nightCredit: APHEDGE YOUR BET-S Chelsea vs Real Betis tale of the tape: How Conference League finalists compareCHELSEA are on the brink of history as they prepare to take on Real Betis in the Conference League final.Enzo Maresca will clash with “football dad” and former boss Manuel Pellegrini when the two sides collide in Warsaw on Wednesday.And a win for Chelsea will see them become the first-ever team to win all three major European competitions.They face a tough test in Betis though, with the Spanish side boasting strong names including Isco, Antony and Gio Lo Celso.Here, SunSport compares the two sides for what is sure to be a lively clash in Poland.But just who will come out on top?SEASON SUCCESSWith both sides reaching the Conference League final, neither side can say they have fallen short in Europe.Yet they have also enjoyed good club campaigns – to an extent.Chelsea at one stage looked on course to challenge Liverpool for the Premier League title before a dramatic Christmas collapse.The Blues then faced a tough challenge to qualify for the Champions League.They eventually sealed a return to Europe’s top table on Sunday with victory over fellow challengers Nottingham Forest.And although they ultimately achieved their season goal, Chelsea undoubtedly made a meal out of it.As for Betis, they too enjoyed mixed fortunes in LaLiga.They ended up finishing sixth, sealing their place in next season’s Europa League regardless of the outcome of Wednesday’s final.However, fifth place in Spain would have been enough for Champions League football.Betis ended up finishing 10 points behind Villarreal and Athletic Bilbao, who took the last two spots.And although Europa League qualification will be welcomed by them, they surely would have loved to have been in the Champions League instead.BEST PLAYERSChelsea’s squad is worth a whole £627MILLION MORE than Betis’ – but there is always one man who stands head and shoulders above his teammates.Despite not enjoying the same success as he did in the 2023/24 campaign, Cole Palmer undoubtedly remains Chelsea’s star player and danger man.The midfielder has taken up a deeper role in a more central position under Maresca, allowing him to dictate more of the play.Palmer’s brilliant technique and vision means he is often the one keeping Chelsea ticking over in possession as teammates look to make darting runs through the lines.And if the Blues are to take control on Wednesday, he will need to be at his mercurial best once again – regardless of whether he scores or assists in the process.As for Betis, they have been inspired in the second half of the season by a Premier League misfit.Brazilian winger Antony, on loan from Manchester United, has been nothing short of a revelation since moving to Spain.He has a smile on his face again after hitting the goal regularly, with fans also showing their appreciation and adoration.A permanent transfer now looks on the cards this summer.And Antony will be desperate to reward the faith shown by Betis by guiding them to glory in Warsaw.TACTICSChelsea have adopted a possession-based style since Maresca’s arrival last summer, with players instructed to keep the ball moving as they inch their way forward to goal.Lining up in a 4-2-3-1 system, the Blues quickly become a fluid unit as players drift out of their regular positions to line up in a 3-2-4-1 shape.Whether it has been a raging success is up for debate, with Chelsea sometimes left exposed at the back while also failing to get enough players into the box to finish off a move.But Maresca’s system has built some team unity, with his unquestionable plan on the pitch making the Blues a strong cohesive force when it finally clicks.MANAGERSChelsea’s Italian gaffer Enzo Maresca has one of the safest seats in football – and that was before he sealed a top four finish on Sunday.The ex-Leicester man was brought in to Stamford Bridge to provide stability while also moulding Chelsea’s youngsters into English football’s next great team.Despite reservations over his playing style, fans appear to have finally taken to Maresca thanks to his calm approach and desire to win.The former Man City coach isn’t the most experienced either.But with time on his side, a trophy win in his debut season will only strengthen his position in the Chelsea hot seat.As for Manuel Pellegrini, he has now been at Betis for nearly five years.Having enjoyed most of his success at Man City, the Chilean has helped build Betis into plucky underdogs.Pellegrini broke their trophy curse by guiding them to the 2022 Copa del Rey.And he remains a wildly popular figure with fans and players alike, having resurrected the careers of fallen men like Isco and Antony.Pellegrini also knows Chelsea boss Maresca well, having coached him at Malaga before appointing him as assistant boss at West Ham.And it should be a fascinating battle between the pair, with Maresca warmly branding Pellegrini his “football father.” More

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    Man Utd star AVOIDS jail after he crashed Audi in 99mph horror smash with ‘balloon in his mouth’

    A FORMER Man Utd star has avoided jail after he was caught with a balloon in his mouth before he crashed his Audi in a 99mph horror smash.Brandon Williams was driving erratically on the A34 near Handforth in Cheshire on August 20, 2023.Brandon Williams has pleaded guilty to driving dangerouslyCredit: Andrew Price / View Finder PicturesThe former Man Utd player crashed his Audi at 99mphCredit: GettyThe 24-year-old was playing for Utd at the time but was loaned to Ipswich for the 2023-24 season.Williams today avoided jail after he pleaded guilty to dangerous driving and driving without third party insurance following the high-speed crash.He was instead handed a 14 month sentence, suspended for two years, and banned from driving for three years.Sentencing, Judge Eric Lamb said: “There was no reason for driving in the way you did.”Chester Crown Court heard the defender was with a female passenger at the time of the crash and was “showing off”..She was seen filming him at one point as Williams reached speeds of 99mph with a balloon in his mouth, it was said.He lost control of the Audi A3 before it collided with a blue Ford Fiesta and then smashed into the central reservation.Three of the occupants of the Fiesta, which was written off, were injured with one saying she “felt she was going to be killed”.Most read in FootballThe female driver and a male passenger suffered whiplash, while another passenger was left with seatbelt injuries and bruising.Williams, who no longer has a team, was breathalysed at the scene but the test was negative.A witness said Williams’ Audi had been “closing in” behind her before the smash and claimed both the star and his passenger had “yellow balloons in their mouths”.But Max Saffman, prosecuting, told the court that the crown did not contend Williams was “impaired” by nitrous oxide or any other substance.The footballer was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries before he was arrested.Williams told police he was driving the Audi but initially denied he was driving erratically.He also attempted to blame another driver for the crash – telling officers he only hit the central reservation as he was forced to swerve.Williams was asked about witnesses who saw him with a balloon at his mouth but he replied: “No comment”.The court heard had been given “too much too soon” and was experiencing “significant mental health issues” at the time.Williams, who is without a club, is now said to be “in better shape mentally and physically” and is hoping to secure a contract this summer. The footballer joined United’s academy as a youngster and went on to make 51 appearances for the first team.Williams has spent two stints on loan away from Old Trafford — firstly with Norwich City during the 2021/22 season where he made 26 appearances and then Ipswich.In June last year, Utd announced that Williams would leave the club at the end of his contract.Andrew Madden, a senior crown prosecutor with CPS Mersey-Cheshire, said: “Brandon Williams’ driving on that day clearly fell far below what would be expected of a competent and careful driver.“Expert analysis showed that he was driving at 99 mph four seconds before he hit the Ford Fiesta.“Witnesses said Williams kept speeding up and then breaking sharply.“It was clear he wasn’t in control of the vehicle.“The driving was erratic and the speed was grossly excessive. “Eventually, Williams lost control completely and crashed.“It is a fortunate no one was seriously injured or killed.Read More on The Sun“To drive at 99mph in those circumstances was extremely dangerous and placed the lives of other road users at serious risk of harm.“The Crown Prosecution Service wishes to thank the witnesses for supporting this prosecution.”Williams pictured arriving at court todayCredit: Andrew Price / View Finder Pictures More