With fan violence as significant of a discussion as on-field action during the early portion of Euro 2016, England vs. Wales is making headlines for the wrong reasons yet again.
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Ahead of Thursday’s match, French police have reportedly arrested 36 people for violent conduct in the streets of Lille late Wednesday night.
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England-Wales will take place in nearby Lens, approximately 25 miles from the setting of Wednesday’s violence.
In a statement released by UEFA, the European football governing body revealed that 16 people were being treated at a local hospital for injuries suffered, although no extent of the injuries were discussed.
“UEFA regrets the skirmishes which occurred in Lille last night,” UEFA said in a statement on Thursday morning. “Police forces made several arrests and were quick to restore order and keep the situation under control.”
Fans were said to be using flares and bangers, while French police were forced to use pepper spray on an English fan who charged at them.
England and Wales will meet in their second Group B fixture on Thursday, with the Three Lions searching for their first win at this year’s competition. Wales looks to piggyback off their thrilling 2-1 victory against Slovakia on Saturday.