West Midlands Police have confirmed that three people were arrested for racially aggravated public order offences ahead of the game.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Pro-Palestine protesters were met by members of the far right and pro-Israel groups outside Villa Park, with fans caught up in the crossfire.
Chief Superintendent Tom Joyce called the situation 'unprecedented,' noting that protests were anticipated from at least six different groups.
For the 8pm GMT kick-off at Villa Park, the force mobilized over 700 officers across the city, supported by police horses, dogs, drone units, and traffic teams.
