Fight at Paraguayan football match; 1 killed, 54 arrested

IANS
Fans of Cerro Porteno cheer before their match against Olimpia
Fans of Cerro Porteno cheer before their match against Olimpia

An 18-year-old man was gunned down before the start of a match between Olimpia and Cerro Porteño over the weekend here, the Paraguayan National Police said, adding that 54 people were arrested after fights broke out following the game.

The victim, believed to be an Olimpia fan, was near Defensores del Chaco Stadium when he was shot by suspected Cerro Porteño fans. Hundreds of fans clashed after Sunday's match, which Cerro Porteño won 1-0, and attacked police in numerous incidents, reports Efe.

Officers seized several pistols and knives from suspects, officials said on Monday. The 54 suspects arrested are being held at the Metropolitan Police Station in Sajonia, the police said.

Security was tight for the Olimpia-Cerro Porteño classic, which draws tens of thousands of fans whenever the two clubs meet.