15 held as fans clash ahead of England match

Fifteen people were arrested today after fans clashed in Amsterdam’s city centre ahead of England’s friendly with Holland tonight.

Police spokesman Nabil Ou Aissa said there were no reports of serious injuries but that officers had clashed with various groups.

A photographer on the scene said police on horseback contained a group of England football supporters on Amsterdam’s central Dam square, adjacent to the red light district where fighting erupted.

Police were searching all supporters for weapons and they were photographed and filmed before being released. Several British police were also present on the square to assist.

Amsterdam authorities had been on high alert for possible violence by supporters ahead of the match.