The Rio de Janeiro military police, who were attacked by Argentina’s top player Lionel Messi, have been defended by the Brazilian Football Association (CBF).
WHAT HAPPENED?
The Albiceleste captain was vocal in his condemnation of authorities at the Maracana stadium, accusing them of “beating people” before claiming that the night “could have ended in tragedy”. Police could be seen violently responding to those who allegedly booed the Brazilian national anthem, with one fan forced to leave, head bloodied, on a stretcher. The match resumed after 30 minutes, with the visitors edging a 1-0 victory.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
It is not the first time that the Brazil-Argentina rivalry has reared its ugly head. Earlier this month, Boca Junior fans were met with similar resistance on Rio’s Copacabana beach, marring the build up to a Copa Libertadores final eventually won by local team Fluminense. Regarding Tuesday night’s altercations, however, the CBF have stood by those accused.
WHAT THE CBF SAID
The federation 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. All the planning for the match, especially the action and security plans, were discussed with the public authorities in Rio de Janeiro in meetings between the parties. CBF therefore reaffirms that the action, security and operation plan for the match, as approved by the RJ Military Police and other authorities, was strictly adhered to.”
WHAT NEXT?
After Nicolas Otamendi’s 63rd minute goal sealed Brazil’s third straight defeat, Fernando Diniz’s side dropped to an incredible sixth in the CONMEBOL World Cup qualifying table. Off the pitch, however, it remains to be seen whether authorities did actually adhere to security plans in the eyes of FIFA, who could respond with a sanction.
