A highly anticipated football derby in Paraguay descended into chaos on Sunday, forcing officials to abandon the match after just 29 minutes as violent clashes erupted between fans and police.
The Superclásico, featuring arch-rivals Olimpia and Cerro Porteño, was played before a packed crowd of approximately 40,000 at the Defensores del Chaco Stadium in Asunción. The violence reportedly ignited when high-powered firecrackers, smuggled into the section reserved for Cerro Porteño supporters, were detonated.
Witnesses described a scene of escalating tension. One spectator told local media that some fans seized a police officer's riot shield and "paraded it like a trophy," further inflaming the situation.
In response, security forces fired rubber bullets and tear gas into the stands, sending hundreds of panicked spectators fleeing onto the pitch. Television footage showed thick smoke billowing through sections of the stadium.
"Police officers acted immediately to ensure the safety of those in attendance," local authorities said in a statement.
The aftermath saw at least six police officers injured, with one reported to be in serious condition after sustaining head and possible stab wounds, according to hospital spokesman David Torales. It remains unclear how many, if any, fans were hurt in the melee. Authorities detained about 100 individuals in connection with the incident.
Police indicated they are working to "identify those who instigated the conflict so that they may be sanctioned and barred from attending future sporting events."
The suspension has triggered a potential points dispute between the clubs. Under Paraguayan Football Association (APF) rules, a team can forfeit a match if its supporters cause a suspension. Olimpia President Rodrigo Nogues stated his club will petition the APF disciplinary tribunal to award them the three points.
Cerro Porteño President Blas Reguera countered, arguing that Olimpia, as the match organizer, was responsible for stadium security.
The incident casts a shadow over Paraguayan football as Olimpia, currently leading the Primera División, and second-place Cerro Porteño vie for the title.