After only managing to draw 1-1 in yesterday’s home play-off leg against Belgrano, River Plate were relegated from the Argentine top flight. Needing to win by 2 goals to retain their place in the Primera A, River threw away a 1-0 lead and missed a penalty at 1-1.
Before the final minute, tempers had passed boiling point in the stands and the referee ended the match before any stoppage time was played. The players were escorted from the pitch, with some of the River players in tears, whilst fans tried to climb the perimeter fence, threw objects on to the pitch and ripped up seats to use as weapons. Police fired water-cannons into the stand and the Belgrano fans were kept in the stadium for over 3hours after the final whistle for their safety. Estimated attendance figures were as high as 60,000 in the 40,000 capacity stadium.
With the violence anticipated, 2,200 policemen had been deployed and there were many clashes outside the stadium between them and fans. As the rioting fans were driven away from the stadium, there were reports of looting and fires in nearby streets.
The club will now need to bounce back, despite estimated debts of $19million and numerous calls for chairman Daniel Passarella to quit the club. Once considered a legendary figure at the club, Passarella is now a widely reviled and is receiving much of the blame for the club’s relegation.
An investigation has also been launched into the Monumental stadium. Due to host the Copa America final in four weeks time, there are now serious concerns regarding policing and illegal ticket sales.
Akbar Shah
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