Fan violence mars Celta vs Lyon Europa League tie as ultras attack bar

Serious clashes broke out between Celta Vigo and Lyon supporters ahead of their Europa League round of 16 clash, after a group of Celta ultras stormed a bar where French fans had gathered in Vigo.

According to local Spanish media, hooded individuals armed with bats and iron bars forced their way into the Twenty Century Fox bar, smashing windows and setting off smoke bombs. Swift police intervention — with around 15 patrol cars and two ambulances dispatched to the scene — prevented more serious injuries, with those affected suffering only minor wounds.

Celta Vigo were quick to distance themselves from the incident. "Celta inspires, defends and promotes the values that all fans know and share. Violence in any form has no place in the identity of this club," the Spanish club said in a statement, adding that those involved would be banned from Balaídos stadium.

Security was significantly reinforced for the evening's match, with approximately 400 Lyon supporters expected inside the ground.