PSG fans teargassed and charged by riot police before Arsenal match in grim scenes

Grim scenes on the streets of Paris marred the build-up to Arsenal's crunch semi-final second leg against on Wednesday night. Ahead of the blockbuster affair at the Parc des Princes, footage surfaced on social media showing PSG fans clashing with riot police.

One clip showed a wall of riot police aggressively moving hordes of supporters down a street near the stadium, with hundreds quickly fleeing the scene. According to , the authorities used tear gas during the ugly clashes, and other videos showed fans covering their faces with scarves and shirts as they left the area.

The atmosphere had been building among the PSG supporters throughout the evening, with the Ligue 1 champions 90 minutes away from one of the biggest matches in their history.

Ousmane Dembele's early goal at the Emirates Stadium earned Luis Enrique's side a 1-0 win in the first leg.

Inter Milan are waiting in the Munich final after the Serie A giants beat Barcelona 7-6 on aggregate in an epic semi-final clash.

The troubling scenes in the near vicinity of the Parc des Princes won't dampen the hosts' spirits as they edge closer to a maiden Champions League crown.

A French reporter claimed that riot police "teargassed entire streets" after large groups of excited supporters let off fireworks.

Checkpoints stationed around the stadium to thwart ticketless fans have reportedly been reinforced after the carnage.

The drama follows Arsenal warning their 2,000 travelling supporters to remain "vigilant" in Paris, with PSG's ultras notorious for clashing with away fans.

A club statement read: "Supporters are strongly advised to avoid the Auteuil suburb of Paris and should take note of this when travelling to the Parc des Princes on matchday.

"Street crime, including pickpocketing, can take place in Paris. Supporters are advised to be vigilant, take sensible precautions and ensure they have valid travel insurance.

"Supporters are strongly advised not to use line 10 on the metro system, which would result in supporters exiting the metro system in Auteuil."

Arsenal have, subsequently, faced criticism for giving fans in Paris complimentary red and white scarves when collecting their tickets.

Many have shared fears that handing supporters club colours to wear could put a target on their backs before and after the high-stakes showdown.

Arsenal supporters will likely be locked in the away end for a certain period of time after full-time. It is up to the Gunners' players to decide whether it will be a joyous wait or a painful one.