One dead, 47 injured after 'incident' at Peru football derby: minister

Email: online@newsofbahrain.com

LIMA: A tragic incident occurred in Lima, Peru, ahead of a highly anticipated football derby between local rivals Alianza Lima and Universitario de Deportes. Authorities have confirmed that one fan died and dozens of others were injured as crowds gathered outside the Alejandro Villanueva Stadium. Medical officials reported that nearly 50 people required treatment, with several remaining in critical condition.

The cause of the tragedy remains under investigation by local authorities. Initial reports suggested that a structural failure or wall collapse at the stadium may have trapped fans.

However, fire officials who inspected the site disputed these claims, stating that the stands and walls appeared to be in good condition. They clarified that no sections of the building had fallen into the interior areas.

In the aftermath, conflicting information surfaced regarding the nature of the emergency. While early reports from government officials mentioned a rescue operation for people trapped in a structure, the home team later issued a statement clarifying that the incident was not related to any structural collapse of the sports complex. This has shifted the focus of the investigation toward the circumstances of the fan rally itself.

Despite the loss of life and the high number of injuries, league officials announced that the match would proceed as scheduled. The professional football league emphasized its commitment to spectator safety while authorities continue to piece together what happened during the pre-match gathering.The incident has cast a somber shadow over one of the most significant sporting events in the capital.