Ticketless England fans gain access to Wembley for Euro 2020 final

Stadium officials insist there was no breach of security

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A "small number" of fans were able to force their way into Wembley Stadium for the Euro 2020 final on Sunday, London police said, amid scenes of disorder before the historic game between England and Italy.

"Earlier this afternoon there was a breach of security at Wembley Stadium, which resulted in a small number of people getting into the stadium without a ticket," the Metropolitan Police said.

"Officers worked closely with security officials to prevent any further breaches.

"We will also support action by Wembley Stadium officials to identify those without tickets and eject them."

A Wembley representative said stadium stewards and security were working to remove the intruders.

"Anyone inside the stadium without a ticket will be instantly ejected," they said.

Hundreds of ticketless fans tried to storm the Wembley gates to gain entry to the final.

Footage on social media showed supporters battling to get past lines of stewards and police as the atmosphere turned ugly in the hours before kick-off.

The mood outside Wembley was growing feverish well before the 7pm kick-off as thousands of fans gathered on Olympic Way.

Some drunken fans were throwing beer cans and bottles, as well as traffic cones, with red flares and fireworks set off.

Social distancing was ignored as mask-less supporters congregated in large groups on the concrete approach to the stadium.

England has been gripped by Euro fever since Gareth Southgate's side booked the country's first major final appearance for 55 years.

The Three Lions are aiming to win their first trophy since the 1966 World Cup.

With coronavirus restrictions still in place, the final capacity at Wembley has been limited to 67,500, with about 7,500 seats reserved for Italy fans.

Updated: July 12, 2021, 7:26 AM