Lille has reported that two of their fans were stabbed in what they described as a “cowardly and intolerable attack” ahead of their Champions League match against Bologna on Wednesday.
The Ligue 1 club issued a warning for supporters to “exercise vigilance” after the incident.
According to Italian media citing local police, approximately 80 individuals, believed to be Bologna fans, attacked around 30 Lille supporters outside a bar in the city’s university district.
The assailants were reportedly armed with metal bars and belts.
Police confirmed that three Lille fans were injured in total. They received treatment at a hospital and have since been discharged.
Lille said in a statement: “The club unreservedly condemns this cowardly and intolerable attack, which contravenes all the values of football and popular support.
“We offer our support to the supporters who are victims of these attacks and wish them a speedy recovery.”
Lille are in contention for a Champions League last-16 play-off spot – they are 17th in the 36-team table on seven points – while Bologna have a single point after four matches and are fighting against elimination.