Police fire rubber bullets as Paraguay derby abandoned

Violent clashes between fans and police caused the abandonment of a match between the top two sides in Paraguay on Sunday.

Hundreds of spectators escaped onto the pitch as police fired rubber bullets and tear gas into the stands at the Superclasico, played between Olimpia and Cerro Porteno, both based in capital city Asuncion.

According to witnesses, the trouble began when firecrackers were detonated in the section of the Defensores del Chaco Stadium which was allocated to Cerro Porteno supporters.

The police detained around 100 people, and while it was not immediately clear whether any fans had been injured, security forces reported that at least six officers were hurt, with one in a serious condition.

David Torales, a spokesperson for a local hospital, said the "officers sustained head injuries, lacerations, including possible stab wounds, and other injuries".

"Police officers acted immediately to ensure the safety of those in attendance," read a statement issued by local police which added that they are working to "identify those who instigated the conflict so that they may be sanctioned and barred from attending future sporting events".

Six points separate league leaders Olimpia and second-placed Cerro Portano - who won the Torneo Clausura in 2025 - at the head of Paraguay's top flight, the Division de Honor.

The Paraguay Football Association (APF) rules state that a game must be forfeited by the side whose supporters forced a suspension.

Olimpia president Rodrio Nogues said the club will seek three points from the APF disciplinary tribunal, while Cerro Porteno president Blas Reguera claims that Olimpia as hosts were responsible for stadium security.