Violent scenes erupted in Strasbourg this evening as a minority of Crystal Palace supporters engaged in disorder before their Europa Conference League fixture.
The disturbance at Place du Marche Gayot saw café furniture launched through the air and glass scattered across cobblestones after windows were shattered.
Video footage circulating on social media captured the shocking incidents, with a small group of troublemakers exchanging blows whilst other fans watched in disbelief.
The confrontation reportedly involved two opposing groups of supporters, prompting nearby establishments to close their doors immediately.
Violent scenes erupted with Crystal Palace fans in Strasbourg
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The chaos left overturned chairs strewn across the square as French authorities moved swiftly to contain the situation.
Riot police were deployed to restore order, marshalling the disruptive supporters on a lengthy trek to the stadium.
The troublemakers, who had been scheduled to travel by tram, were instead compelled to walk the hour-long route under heavy police escort.
Gendarmes bearing riot shields flanked the group whilst police vans followed behind.
The supporters were permitted to advance only when instructed by authorities, creating a stop-start procession through Strasbourg's streets.
Cafes appeared to be smashed up with glass from windows on the floor and chairs thrown
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This enforced march served as punishment for their earlier misconduct. Meanwhile, other Palace fans carrying flags and scarves made their own way to the venue as sirens echoed through the French city.
The Europa Conference League encounter proceeded as scheduled at 8pm despite the pre-match disturbances.
Crystal Palace entered the fixture occupying 11th place in the league phase standings, following their recent victory over AZ Alkmaar.
A triumph in Strasbourg would potentially elevate the Eagles into the automatic qualification positions for the knockout stages.
Their French hosts currently hold seventh place after three matches in the competition.
The stakes remain significant for both sides as they pursue progression in Europe's third-tier tournament.
Palace's European campaign continues to offer opportunities for advancement, with automatic qualification spots within reach should they secure three points this evening.
Riot police were called and escorted Palace fans away
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Palace manager Oliver Glasner offered his pre-match thoughts on the challenge ahead.
"Strasbourg are a very good team, and not just in the Conference League but in Ligue 1, they've done very well," he stated.
The Austrian coach highlighted their opponents' qualities: "I was really impressed when we prepared for this game, about the way they are playing: very intense, very quick players, with a lot of confidence, always attacking. It will be a great challenge."
Crystal Palace fans clashing with each other in Strasbourg today #CPFC
— FootballAwaydays (@Awaydays23) November 27, 2025
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Glasner also acknowledged the reunion with Ben Chilwell, the defender who helped Palace secure FA Cup glory whilst on loan last season before joining Strasbourg temporarily. "He's a fantastic player, and an even better person," Glasner remarked.