Brawl in crowd forces delay of Argentina's World Cup qualifier at Brazil as Lionel Messi leads team-mates into dressing room

Violence broke out between Brazil and Argentina fans prior to their World Cup qualifying clash at the Maracana on Tuesday night, leading to the reigning World Cup champions walking off the field moments before scheduled kickoff. The two sides eventually opened play 30 minutes late.

Albiceleste and Selecao fans reportedly clashed when the home support started booing Argentina's national anthem. Local police intervened, but the violence only increased. Messi and the Argentina squad rushed over to the stands to stop the scuffle, but left the pitch when it became clear that there was no imminent end.

Brazil's players stayed on the field and awaited the visitors' return.

Some Argentina players tried to get involved in the scuffle, with Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez attempting to reach his way into the crowd.

Argentina went on to win the match, 1-0, on a goal from Nicolas Otamendi, becoming the first team to top Brazil at the Maracana in World Cup qualifying.