LONDON: Lionel Messi lashed out at Brazilian police after Argentina’s victory over arch-rivals was marred by violence before kick-off.
Ahead of Argentina’s 1-0 win at the iconic Maracana stadium, massive brawls broke out in the stands as fans and police clashed with each other.
After Argentina and Brazil fans started fighting, the police used batons to control the situation, leaving some fans injured and bleeding.
Although Messi was happy about the victory, he still thought about the incident after the match.
“We saw how the police beat the supporters, it already happened during the Libertadores final,” said Messi referring to the incident that took place at the Maracana before Fluminese’s clash against Boca Juniors, earlier this year.
“They are more focused on that (hitting the fans) than the match.
“We went back to the dressing room because that’s the best way to calm things down, tragedy can happen.”
Messi added: ‘We have a family and we decided to continue playing to make sure things are calmer.
Messi also made a post on Instagram after the match, writing ‘this team continues to make history.’
“A great win at the Maracana although it will be remembered as Argentina’s oppression in Brazil once again.
“We can’t let this happen anymore and it should end now!”