High Security for France-Israel Nations League Match

Heavy security measures were implemented for the Nations League match between France and Israel at the Stade de France, following violence in Amsterdam involving Maccabi Tel Aviv fans. Approximately 4,000 police officers were deployed, and public transport was also secured with an additional 1,500 officers. The atmosphere was tense, with only about 20,000 tickets sold for an 80,000 capacity stadium, and many pro-Palestine protesters gathered outside. French President Emmanuel Macron and other dignitaries attended to show solidarity against anti-Semitism. Coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged the unusual and heavy context impacting player and fan attendance. The low turnout of Israeli supporters came after warnings from Israel's National Security Council against attending cultural events abroad.