Palmeiras coaches during their Copa Libertadores match in Argentina (AP Photo)
South American football continues to generate the wrong kind of headlines following more bad fan behavior. This time, supporters of the Brazilian club Palmeiras "confronted" their own players in an airport as the team was preparing to return home after a 0-1 Copa Libertadores defeat to Tigre in Buenos Aires.
The group of fans confronted the players at Jorge Newbery Airport. According to the Associated Press, the attackers were wearing the jerseys of Palmeiras' largest Supporter group. Goalkeeper Fernando Prass was injured when a fan threw a cup at Jorge Valdivia, a Palmeiras midfielder, and missed, striking Prass. Prass was treated for cuts to his hand and ear.
Security guards attempted to intervene, and Palmeiras Captain Henrique tried to calm the group of fans, but eventually Valdivia had to retreat and hide in a bathroom surrounded by security until the situation was under control. According to Brazilian media, Valdivia was verbally harassed by his club's own fans prior to the match and allegedly retaliated with obscene gestures. The club has said that they support Valdivia.
Three fans were detained in Argentina, but were later released. Goalkeeper Prass remained in Argentina in order to receive treatment for his injuries. The rest of the team returned to Brazil and left the airport through a secure exit.
This is just another issue of football related violence that has cropped up as Brazil prepares to host the FIFA World Cup next year. Brazil's Footbaall Federation President as well as the Minister for Sports condemned the actions, saying that these issues are damaging the sport of football.
View the AP article HERE.
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