The match has been framed by intense scrutiny after West Midlands Police ruled the fixture high risk, which prevented visiting supporters from attending.

A contentious football match between Maccabi Tel Aviv and Aston Villa got underway amid tight security in Birmingham, central England, on Thursday, with visiting Israeli fans barred over safety fears.

Ch Supt Tom Joyce said at least half a dozen groups were expected to protest including pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli groups as well as the far right.