Grêmio Supporters Suffer Minor Injuries After Fence Collapses During 'Avalanche Celebration'

Brasileiro club Grêmio opened its new stadium on Wednesday "with a scare," according to IG. Grêmio midfielder Elano's goal 16 minutes into the Libertadores clash against Ecuadorean side Liga de Quito led to the home fans' traditional "avalanche celebration," which resulted in "a fence collapsing and people falling into a ditch." Eight injuries were reported "but none serious." The game was stopped for six minutes while the injured were attended to (IG, 1/30). REUTERS noted the "avalanche celebration" is common all over South America and involves supporters "running down the terraces en masse towards the front, creating the impression of an avalanche" (REUTERS, 1/31).

NO WORRIES: UOL's Vinicius Konchinski reported Brazilian Football Confederation President (CBF) José Maria Marin confirmed Brazil would play France at the same Grêmio Arena on June 9. Marin said that "precautions needed to be taken after the incident" in the Libertadores clash. Marin said, "We are sorry for what happened. It is a warning sign. A warning sign for the Confederations Cup and the World Cup. It's important that fans have their limits" (UOL, 1/31). The Grêmio Arena is not scheduled to host any Confederations Cup or World Cup matches (SBD GLOBAL).