The World Cup qualifier between Latin America powerhouses Brazil and Argentina was suspended on Sunday night as the Brazilian Health Authorities stormed onto the pitch to detain Argentina players Emiliano Martinez of Aston Villa, Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Romero, both from Tottenham Hotspur, for allegedly breaking Covid-19 protocols. A fourth player, Emiliano Buendia of Aston Villa, was not included in the squad.
Earlier, the four Argentine players from the English Premier League were ordered to quarantine by Brazil’s health agency ahead of the match between the South American rivals.
The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) said in a statement that the game had been “suspended” but did not say whether the match would resume or be replayed.
“By decision of the match referee, the match organized by FIFA between Brazil and Argentina for the qualifiers for the the World Cup is suspended,” it said.
“The referee and the match commissioner will submit a report to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee, which will determine the steps to follow. These procedures adhere strictly to current regulations.”
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