It is unclear what sparked the incident but rival supporters were seen showing one another with some even ripping the seats from the stands and launching them at one another.

Hoards of Rio de Janeiro police swiftly intervened but struggled to curb the melee before shockingly using batons on the brawling fans.

A mass brawl in the stands of the Maracana broke out ahead of Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Argentina

Rivals supporters began fighting with one another before clashing with Brazilian police

Lionel Messi led the Argentina players off the field with kickoff delayed due to the violence

The reigning World Cup winners initially appeared to be refusing to return to the field

Horrible scenes in the stands prior to Brazil vs Argentina. pic.twitter.com/ZluK2yQI4b

— Alexi Lalas (@AlexiLalas) November 22, 2023

Parts of seats flew around and hit some of the spectators behind one of the goals. At least one fan left the stadium bleeding from his head.

Some players from both Brazil and Argentina approached the stands to attempt to calm fans down.

However, a handful only added fuel to the fire as Argentina goalkeeper Dibu Martinez leapt up towards the stands and appeared to try to grab a baton out of a police officer’s hand before being torn away from the scene by his teammates.

Lionel Messi ultimately led the Albiceleste players back into the locker rooms.

The reigning World Cup winners initially appeared to be refusing to return to the field for kickoff before CONMEBOL gave them 15 minutes to take the field.

Argentina told their Brazil rivals they would only return to the pitch after the situation was calm.

They eventually returned after 22 minutes in the dressing room, and warmed up for another three minutes before the game was finally started.

Argentina vs Brazil has always been an exciting fixture but not once did I expect to see this 😭pic.twitter.com/Apg3dChthY

— Reasons (@LFCReasons) November 22, 2023