As reported by L’Équipe, RMC Sport and France-Ouest, RC Lens’s UEFA Champions League match against Arsenal has been classed as “high-risk” by the French authorities.
1,800 Arsenal fans are expected to make the trip to Lens for Tuesday night’s match. The Prefecture estimates that around 200 fans without tickets will make the trip to the northern French town, in the hope of either watching the match in local bars or securing a ticket on the black market. Authorities have also set up a fanzine in place du Cantin to accommodate fans making the journey from London.
“Adapted security measures have been put in place for the match. Particular attention will be paid to gatherings in the town centre, as well as their trips in town and all the way to the stadium,” said the Pas-de-Calais Prefecture.
It is expected to be a passionate night in and around the Stade Bollaert. It is the first time that Lens have competed in a European competition in 20 years.
Arsenal are looking to secure back-to-back Champions League victories following a 4-0 win over PSV Eindhoven a fortnight ago. Lens are looking for their first win after a 1-1 draw against Sevilla.
GFFN | Luke Entwistle
