Greek police clash with fans ahead of AEK Athens vs Ajax

AEK Athens' Champions League clash with Ajax was marred by violent scenes before kick-off.

Ajax fans came under attack in the Greek capital as home supporters threw flares into the stands housing the Dutch supporters.

Shocking photos showed police officers hitting Ajax fans, leaving some of them caked in blood in the away end.

Pictures also appeared to show a man leaving the AEK stands to throw a molotov cocktail at the Ajax supporters.

It was reported that Ajax defender Matthijs de Ligt ran over to the visiting fans in an attempt to play the role of peacemaker.

At the start of the second half there was further crowd disturbance as several firecrackers were set off.

Players from both sides were seen to be rubbing their eyes as smoke drifted across the Athens Olympic Stadium.

Police also clashed with mostly Greek fans in parts of central Athens earlier Tuesday and late Monday.

Rival Greek supporters were involved in the violence near the city's police headquarters.

Traffic was blocked after youths hurled petrol bombs at rival supporters and police.