In brief
One fan has died and over 47 others were injured in Lima, Peru, during a football rally at Alejandro Villanueva Stadium. Initial reports suggested structural damage, but officials disputed these claims, leading to an investigation. Some fans remain in critical condition following the event.
An incident ahead of a local football derby in the Peruvian capital Lima has left one fan dead and dozens injured. Confirming the death, Peruvian Health Minister Juan Carlos Velasco Guerrero reported that 47 people were hurt, with three in critical condition.Hundreds had gathered outside Alejandro Villanueva Stadium wearing football shirts and waving flags of the home team, Alianza Lima, prior to their match against local rivals Universitario de Deportes. As investigations begin, initial reports suggested structural issues at the stadium, but officials, including Fire Chief Marcos Pajuelo, later stated that the southern stands appeared intact. Alianza Lima released a statement denying that the incident was related to any structural collapse, while the Peruvian Professional Football League emphasized its commitment to safety at sporting events. The match is still scheduled to go ahead as planned.
