Riot police control crowd unrest at Old Trafford




Betis supporters scuffle with police during the Europa League round of 16 first leg soccer match between Manchester United and Real Betis at the Old Trafford stadium in Manchester, Thursday, March 9, 2023. (AP Photo/Dave Thompson)
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MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Riot police had to control crowd unrest during Manchester United’s Europa League match against Real Betis on Thursday.

Trouble broke out in the away section at Old Trafford late in round-of-16 first-leg match, which United won 4-1.

Police wearing helmets and protective gear tried to control the situation and were involved in altercations with some of the traveling fans.

They remained in place after the final whistle as the Betis supporters had to wait before being allowed to leave the stadium.

It wasn’t immediately known if there were arrests or injuries.

United delivered an encouraging response to the 7-0 loss to Liverpool on Sunday by moving within reach of the Europa League quaterfinals.

Marcus Rasfhord, Antony, Bruno Fernandes and Wout Weghorst all scored, with Ayoze Perez responding for Betis.

United travels to Spain next week for the second leg.