FIFA is set to investigate the unfortunate confrontation between fans of Argentina and Brazil during the World Cup qualifying match between both countries, which was played at the Maracana stadium in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday.
In what is arguably regarded as the biggest rivalry in world football, Brazil clashed with Argentina once again, with both South American heavyweights seeking a place in the 2026 World Cup.
However, the clash wasn’t just on the pitch between players of both teams – but made its way into the stands, where a serious fight (literally!) ensued between Brazilian and Argentine fans – as All Soccer earlier reported.
Per reports, the local police rushed to curtail the ensuing chaos in the stadium, but ended up man-handling the visiting fans in the process, with scenes on the internet showing police hitting Argentine fans. In fact, this led to Argentina captain Lionel Messi, leading his teammates off the pitch in a show of solidarity with the fans and as a protest over the way Brazilian police handled the situation.
The events of Friday has met huge condemnations, especially from fans of Argentina, who felt singled out by police at the Maracana stadium. Taking to social platform Reddit to speak about the situation, an Argentine fan named Eugenio wrote (via Sportsmanor):
“The Brazilian Police came with us, and they were taking selfies with the x-rays of injured people as a war trophy”
Meanwhile, per a report by Globo, the world football governing body, FIFA, is set to conduct an investigation regarding the violence that took place during the match. The report further suggests that the investigation could lead to severe punishment for the Brazil Soccer Confederation (CBF). Any disciplinary punishment from FIFA could mean the deduction of points, or hosting of matches without fans, or huge monetary fines.
Even more, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has also released a statement condemning the police brutality and situation which took place during the Argentina vs Brazil match.
Infantino said, per HT Sports: “Without exception, all players, fans, staff, and managers need to be safe and protected to play and enjoy football and I urge the competent authorities to ensure this is respected at all levels.”
Do you think Brazil will be heavily fined by FIFA? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
