What was meant to be another fiery chapter of Paraguay’s fiercest rivalry instead descended into scenes of panic and violence, as the clash between Club Olimpia and Cerro Porteño on Sunday, April 19, 2026, was abandoned after just 29 minutes in Asunción.

Trouble reportedly began even before kickoff, with sections of visiting Cerro Porteño supporters attempting to force entry into the stadium without tickets.

The unrest quickly escalated into clashes in the stands, prompting referee Juan Gabriel Benítez to halt proceedings at the Estadio Defensores del Chaco.

Amid the chaos, police fired rubber bullets and tear gas into the stands in a bid to regain control, triggering widespread panic.

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Terrified supporters flooded onto the pitch, while families scrambled for safety.

In one alarming moment, a pregnant woman had to be carried out of the stadium as the situation spiraled.

Police later confirmed that 11 officers were injured, with 31 fans arrested on various charges.

National Police Commander, César Silguero stated that officers acted within protocol, describing their response as defensive rather than repressive.

Police said the violence was “perpetrated by a section of ⁠Cerro Porteno supporters,” prompting the temporary suspension of the match for security reasons.

“In response to these events, police officers acted immediately to restore order and guarantee the safety of those in attendance,” the statement said.

Authorities added that an investigation is underway, with those responsible set to face prosecution and stadium bans.

FKA/JE

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