Brazilian police intervene in the stands of the Maracana Stadium to stop a brawl before the South American Classic. Antonio Lacerda (EFE)
The South American classic between Brazil and Argentina started almost half an hour late due to clashes between fans in the south stand of the Maracana Stadium. Minutes before the start of the game, Brazilian police had to intervene to stop the brawl involving fans of both teams. The Albiceleste team, led by Lionel Messi, even left the pitch, a decision that some Argentine media attributed to a protest by the players because they felt the away fans were being repressed more harshly.
The situation, which was on the verge of canceling the game, revived memories of the 2021 classic in Sao Paulo, which was interrupted after five minutes by health officials who accused four Argentine players of violating health regulations. It also brought back some memories of a few weeks ago when incidents were reported between Fluminense and Boca Juniors fans in the days leading up to the final of the Rio de Janeiro-based Copa Libertadores.
You can follow EL PAÍS Deportes on Facebook and Xor sign up here to receive our weekly newsletter.