Riot police charge into crowd during Serbia vs England as child lifted out

Riot police were forced to intervene in the crowd during Serbia’s clash with England in Belgrade on Tuesday night as a World Cup qualifier took place

Riot police stormed into the crowd after trouble flared in the stands during England’s match against Serbia. The incident occurred in the home section of the Belgrade stadium, a considerable distance from where the visiting fans were situated.

ITV commentator Sam Matterface relayed the news live on air, stating: “There is a stream of riot police running into the home section of the crowd.” He further reported that a child had to be lifted out as authorities rushed to the scene, although TV footage did not capture the incident.

Pitchside reporter Gabriel Clarke explained that the disturbance was due to political disagreements. “The disturbance happened in the main stand and it was rather unnerving for a few minutes,” he said.

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“A few Serbians ran across that stand, there were families involved as well. Some children had to be moved on.

“It was Serbian fans arguing between themselves. It was politically charged, pro and anti-government.

“The police have moved in and calmed the situation.” Thankfully, there have been no reports of any serious injuries.

Serbia is currently experiencing significant political unrest over controversial president Aleksandar Vucic. The government is so divisive that Serbian national team manager Dragan Stojkovic was booed as he emerged from the tunnel before kick-off due to his stance on the situation.

Numerous Serbian cities have witnessed a series of protests as they call for an immediate election to try and oust President Vucic. Sixteen individuals tragically lost their lives last November when the roof of a refurbished train station collapsed during a protest.

England triumphed over Serbia courtesy of goals from Harry Kane, Noni Madueke, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi and a penalty netted by Marcus Rashford.

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