Fans Clash with Police at Paraguays Superclasico Soccer Match

Violence Erupts at Paraguayan Football Derby

A match between Olimpia and Cerro Porteno in the Primera Division of Paraguay’s top football league was suspended after 29 minutes due to violence involving fans and police. The incident occurred on Sunday at the Defensores del Chaco Stadium in Asuncion, where approximately 40,000 spectators were present.

According to eyewitnesses, the violence began when high-powered firecrackers were detonated by Cerro Porteno supporters in a designated section of the stadium. Witnesses reported that some fans took a police officer’s riot shield and displayed it in front of the crowd, prompting a response from law enforcement.

Police responded with rubber bullets and tear gas, forcing hundreds of spectators to flee onto the pitch. The match was subsequently called off, and about 100 people were detained. Local authorities stated that at least six officers were injured, including one who required serious medical attention.

The Paraguayan Football Association (APF) has announced that a team must forfeit a match if its supporters force the game to be suspended. Olimpia President Rodrigo Nogues plans to seek three points for his club from the APF disciplinary tribunal. Cerro Porteno President Blas Reguera attributed the incident to poor stadium security, citing Olimpia’s role as match organizers.

The incident has resulted in several individuals being detained and injured parties seeking medical attention. The investigation into the cause of the violence is ongoing, with authorities working to identify those responsible for instigating the conflict.

Source: Al Jazeera