July 12 – Brazilian club Vasco da Gama have been ordered to play home matches behind closed doors after a 27-year-old fan was shot dead during clashes with military police.
Local media reported the fan was killed by a gunshot wound to the chest as supporters rioted following a first home defeat to arch-rivals Flamengo for 44 years.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) said that Vasco’s fans caused “serious disturbances and a show of violence”.
“Taking into account that the safety of fans is a priority, it has been decided to ban the presence of the public at Sao Januario stadium in any football match. The decision is pending a decision by the Sporting Justice which will look into last weekend’s events,” the CBF said.
Fighting inside and outside the stadium began at the end of the match, after Flamengo had secured their first win at the Sao Januario stadium in Rio de Janeiro for 44 years.
“I needed to apologise on behalf of Vasco,” said Vasco president Eurico Miranda. “What happened here is not Vasco. Do not qualify these people as fans. They are vandals, bandits. I’m not giving an explanation, but I’m sure it’s something that was already prepared.”
Contact the writer of this story at moc.l1734868257labto1734868257ofdlr1734868257owedi1734868257sni@w1734868257ahsra1734868257w.wer1734868257dna1734868257