At least 50 people were injured on Sunday after violence broke out during a top-flight football match in Paraguay, forcing the game to be abandoned at a packed stadium in the capital.
The encounter between Club Olimpia and Cerro Porteño was halted after 29 minutes when clashes erupted in the stands at the venue in Asunción.
According to the BBC, eyewitnesses said the trouble began after firecrackers were set off in the section housing Cerro Porteño supporters.
The situation reportedly escalated rapidly, with confrontations breaking out between fans and security personnel, making it impossible for play to continue.
Authorities confirmed that at least six police officers were injured in the unrest, with one in serious condition. All the injured officers were taken to hospital for treatment.
“Police officers acted immediately to ensure the safety of those in attendance,” read a statement issued by local police, which added that they are working to “identify those who instigated the conflict so that they may be sanctioned and barred from attending future sporting events.”
Olimpia sit at the top of the league standings, while Cerro Porteño are second, adding further intensity to the aftermath of the abandoned fixture.
