The scene of violent clashes between English and Russian football fans over the last few days, Marseille is currently a sea of red.
Albania and France meet in Marseille
The scene of violent clashes between English and Russian football fans over the last few days, Marseille is currently a sea of red.
#marseille right now all dressed up in #RedAndBlack for tonight's #FraAlb #alb #Albania #EURO2016 #TifozatKuqEzi pic.twitter.com/E2PfiK35fm
— AlbiB7 (@AlbiB7) June 15, 2016
Albania and France will meet in the Mediterranean city on Tuesday evening as part of the Euro 2016 championship – and the atmosphere is very different.
There is an obvious police presence, but for the moment, things seem to be good-natured.
“We’re expecting a good show, more than anything,” said one Albania supporter. “But also a victory for Albania.”
“Play as well as possible. No aggression. May the best team win – but that will be Albania!” said another.
French fans
#Marseille Clément d'Antibes est bien là. Et accompagné pour supporter l'Equipe de France ! #FBsport pic.twitter.com/vTwmMQ3Jmi
— France Bleu Provence (@bleuprovence) June 15, 2016
Fans have also gathered outside the French team hotel.
“For me, it’s become a tradition to welcome the French team when they’re at the hotel,” said “superfan” Clement d’Antibes. “Usually the players do a walkabout before the match but with the security situation and the risk, there won’t be one. But its not a problem. We’re here to cheer on The Blues.”
Fans aren’t disappointed by the likely no-show.
France is all but guaranteed qualification if they beat Albania, so all they want is a win.