The World Cup qualifying match between Brazil and Argentina on November 21, 2023, was delayed by half an hour due to clashes between fans and security staff at Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. The altercation began during the playing of the national anthems, with Brazilian police charging the visiting Argentine fans. In response, the fans ripped up and threw seats at the officers, causing panic among other spectators. One injured fan had to be taken away on a stretcher.
As the situation escalated, the Argentina team, led by captain Lionel Messi, attempted to calm the fans. The team eventually left the pitch and returned to the dressing room. Once the police had rounded up the traveling fans and the situation was under control, the match between the fierce footballing rivals began after a delay of about 30 minutes.
The sold-out stadium was filled with Brazilian fans hoping to support their team as they sought to recover from consecutive qualifying match losses for the first time in their history. The match finally commenced with both teams back on the field, ready to compete for victory.