The Brazil FA has come out in support of Rio de Janeiro’s military police, who have been condemned by Argentina captain Lionel Messi. During the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers between Brazil vs Argentina at the Maracana Stadium, two groups of fans in the stands got into a brawl. The atmosphere became so tense that the local police stationed at the stadium used baton charges on the away fans. Messi had to lead his teammates back to the locker room after things turned heated, delaying the start.
However, according to Goal, the CBF (Brazil FA) has taken no position on the altercations that occurred on Tuesday night.
The Brazil FA wrote in a statement: “It is important to clarify that the organisation and planning of the match was carried out carefully and strategically by the CBF, together and in constant dialogue with all the competent public bodies, especially the Military Police of the State of Rio de Janeiro.“
The Albiceleste captain was outspoken in his denunciation of the Maracana stadium administrators, accusing them of “beating people.” Lionel Messi even stated that the night “could have ended in tragedy.”
Police were seen reacting forcefully to people who reportedly booed the Brazilian national anthem. One supporter was even forced to leave on a stretcher, his head bleeding. The game continued after 30 minutes, with the visitors winning 1-0.
It is not the first time that the Brazil vs Argentina rivalry has surfaced. Earlier last month, Boca Junior supporters encountered similar opposition on Rio’s Copacabana beach. Thus tainting the build-up to a Copa Libertadores final won by Fluminense.
Earlier, in the 63rd minute, defender Otamendi scored on a Giovani Lo Celso corner, Argentina’s sole attempt on goal. Brazil’s woes were exacerbated in the 82nd minute when midfielder Joelinton was sent off for elbowing Rodrigo de Paul in the face.
The world champions defeated their fiercest opponents for the third time in a row. Brazil had just suffered back-to-back defeats in World Cup qualifiers for the first time in their history.
Brazil also suffered its first home defeat in a World Cup qualifier. Argentina leads the rankings with 15 points, while Brazil is eight points down in sixth position, the final slot that secures a ticket in the 2026 championships.
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