‘Sore loser’ Australian soccer fans spit on France supporters as wild brawl erupts in Melbourne
‘Sore loser’ Socceroos fans SPIT on France supporters and rip a flag at a packed fan zone before a wild brawl erupts after the Aussies were thrashed 4-1 in World Cup opener
World Cup celebrations have turned ugly after violence erupted between rival fans in Melbourne.
Thousands packed Federation Square on Wednesday morning for the Socceroos’ tournament opener against defending champions France in Qatar.
There were jubilant scenes after the Socceroos hit the front after six minutes before France hit back to lead 2-1 at half-time.
Tensions escalated during the second half between rival fans watching in Melbourne after France extended their lead and went on to win 4-1.
Shocking footage and photos have emerged of Socceroos supporters turning on a small group of French fans celebrating the victory, with some spitting on the winning team’s supporters.
Violence erupted between Socceroos and French fans in Melbourne’s Federation Square following Australia’s 4-1 World Cup loss
Rival fans threw water bottles at each other as the large crowd watched on
French fans were forced to duck for cover while having cans and water bottles pelted at them by the crowd.
video posted to social media shows punches between the opposing fans.
There are also reports a French flag was stolen from some Les Bleus supporters by Australian fans.
Footage has also emerged of flares being thrown during the match.
Tensions subsided a short time later.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted Victoria Police for comment.
There were sombre and much more subdued scenes elsewhere across Australia following the loss, including Sydney’s iconic Cheers bar.