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Russian football hooligans have defied the police and country's security services to stage an ugly brawl in a World Cup host city just six weeks before the start of the international contest.

Video footage has emerged of a violent clash between “Ultra” fan groups linked to Zenit St Petersburg and CSKA Moscow.

The footage was deliberately low quality to prevent perpetrators being identified by the Russian authorities.

The battle involving around 50 thugs throwing punches and kicking was ahead of a 0-0 draw between the two clubs in St Petersburg on Sunday.

It will be seen as a warning to foreign fans travelling to the FIFA World Cup in June.

England's base for the contest is close to St Petersburg, Vladimir Putin's home city.

Putin has ordered a crackdown on perpetrators of football violence - and especially hooligan leaders - to prevent trouble at the showcase tournament which kicks off on Thursday, June 14.

(Image: Youtube) (Image: Youtube)

His edict has led to a major decline in trouble in or near grounds, with only occasional staged battles in forests outside major cities.

The recent fight close to a fountain in a park close to the St Petersburg Stadium - which will host one of the semi-final - will worry authorities.

They are seeking a peaceful World Cup without repeats of the bloodshed in Marseilles involving Russian and English supporters during Euro 2016.

(Image: Getty) (Image: Reuters)

There have been few incidents at recent Russian Premier League games this season compared to previous years.

One comment about the St Petersburg violence on an ultra website read: “The SWAT team didn't arrive on time.

“The guys got away, looks like no-one was caught.

“Everyone was able to stand up after, but some were beaten.”

Another wrote: “In the city, a fight of 50 - and no SWAT! Beautiful!”

(Image: Youtube) (Image: Youtube)

The fight was reportedly between Mobily (Zenith) with 30 hooligans and Fanblock (CSKA) with 20, according to those involved and witnesses.

Fanblock is described as the “combat wing” of Ultra fans of CSKA - also known as the Central Army Club.

The FSB has warned Russia will face down a hooliganism challenge at the World Cup but the number one threat is terrorism.