Violence Erupts at Brazil vs. Argentina Match, FIFA Chief Condemns

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil – FIFA president Gianni Infantino has condemned the violence that marred the World Cup qualifying match between Brazil and Argentina on Tuesday.

“There is absolutely no place for violence in football, on or off the field,” Infantino said in a statement. “Such events have no place in our sport or society.”

The violence erupted at the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro, where a group of Argentinian fans were attacked by Brazilian police. The incident led to a delay in the start of the match, and several Argentinian players were left shaken by the violence.

“The treatment of our players and fans by the Brazilian police was unacceptable,” Argentina captain Lionel Messi said after the match. “We were subjected to violence and intimidation, and this is not the way football should be played.”

FIFA has opened an investigation into the incidents, and is expected to take disciplinary action against those responsible.

The violence overshadowed Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Brazil, which secured the team’s place in the 2026 World Cup. However, the match will be remembered for the wrong reasons, and Infantino has called for a full investigation into the events that unfolded.

“We must ensure that this never happens again,” Infantino said. “Football is a sport that should bring people together, not divide them.”