Tensions flare between fans outside stadium ahead of Barcelona vs Benfica clash

With just half an hour remaining before Barcelona’s big Champions League encounter against SL Benfica, the excitement is at fever pitch.

The Catalans are looking to defend a slender one goal lead over the Portuguese giants at home. However, with the game yet to even start, it appears travelling Benfica supporters have already started causing quite the ruckus outside Montjuic.

Tensions rise outside stadium

As reported by SPORT, the outside area of the Montjuic saw clashes between two sets of fans, which serves as an early reminder of the growing tension between the two parties.

With this fixture marked as high-risk, security around the Lluís Companys Stadium had already been tightened, but the arrival of Benfica’s most extreme supporters has escalated tensions further.

A group of radical Portuguese fans reached Barcelona seemingly more intent on causing trouble than enjoying a football spectacle.

Tensions have spiked ahead of Barcelona-Benfica clash (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Instead of focusing on supporting their team, they have been seen engaging in unsportsmanlike behavior, including directing insults toward Barcelona in the vicinity of the stadium.

A small but heated altercation took place between Benfica’s ‘hooligans’ and a group of radical Barça supporters.

However, swift intervention from the security forces prevented the situation from spiraling out of control.

With over two thousand Benfica fans set to witness the clash this evening, there is concern over potential incidents inside the stadium. Given the classification of this game as a high-risk event, authorities remain on high alert to prevent any further disturbances.