Arsenal face Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League final in Budapest on Saturday, with tensions running high after fan clashes in the Hungarian capital and frustration growing over the match not being shown on free-to-air television.
Arsenal are chasing their first Champions League title, while PSG are the defending champions. The match, which kicks off at the Puskas Arena in the evening, is only available on TNT Sports – a subscription service – despite pressure from the Prime Minister, who has been vocal in his criticism of the decision. Tickets for the final are being sold on resale sites for up to £195,000, with some holders cashing in on the interest.
“Arsenal play PSG in the Champions League final in Budapest, with fan clashes, a high-security presence, and controversy over the match not being free-to-air. Tickets are being resold for up to £195,000.”
In Budapest, a significant security operation is under way. Some 4,000 officers are on duty in and around the stadium and on the streets of the city to keep visitors safe and prevent clashes between rival supporters. Police arrested two British fans on Friday after fighting broke out between Arsenal supporters and PSG gangs.
Back in north London, thousands of fans flooded the streets early in the morning, queuing outside pubs in Islington from 8am. Many who did not travel to Hungary are expected to gather at the Emirates Stadium for a screening of the match.
BBC Sport's tactics correspondent Umir Irfan has analysed how Arsenal can overcome PSG, with the Gunners hoping to end their long wait for a European crown. The match is not being broadcast free-to-air, a decision that has drawn criticism from the Prime Minister and supporters' groups.
What happens next: The Champions League final kicks off at the Puskas Arena this evening. Arsenal will attempt to win the trophy for the first time in their history, while PSG aim to retain the title.
What This Means For You - Football fans: You will need a subscription to TNT Sports to watch the match live. No free-to-air option is available. - Fans in Budapest: Expect a heavy police presence and heightened security. Two British fans have already been arrested following clashes. - Supporters in London: Pubs in Islington are packed from early morning, and the Emirates Stadium is showing the match on a big screen. - Anyone tempted by resale tickets: The cheapest resale tickets are being advertised for £195,000, well beyond the reach of most ordinary fans.