Brazilian Football Association (CBF) has stepped forward to defend Rio de Janeiro’s military police, which faced criticism from Argentina’s Lionel Messi.
The Albiceleste captain strongly condemned the authorities at the Maracana stadium, alleging that they were “beating people” and warning that the night “could have ended in tragedy.”
Video footage showed police responding forcefully to individuals who were purportedly booing the Brazilian national anthem, with one fan seen leaving with a bloodied head on a stretcher.
Despite the tumultuous incident, the match resumed after a 30-minute delay, resulting in a 1-0 victory for the visitors.
This incident is not the first time tensions have flared in the Brazil-Argentina rivalry. Earlier this month, Boca Juniors fans encountered similar resistance on Rio’s Copacabana beach, creating a contentious atmosphere leading up to a Copa Libertadores final eventually won by the local team, Fluminense.
However, in response to Tuesday night’s altercations, the CBF has firmly stood by the actions of the accused authorities.
The federation wrote in a statement: “It is important to clarify that the organisation and planning of the match were 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, were strictly adhered to.”
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.