A Santos football fan was critically injured after a violent clash with supporters of Athletico Paranaense in Curitiba, Brazil, on the night of Thursday, December 12. According to Captain Leonardo Socorro da Silva from the Shock Police Battalion, the Athletico group outnumbered their Santos rivals and attacked them with wooden sticks, knives, and other objects. The fight broke out at a tube station close to the stadium in the Água Verde neighborhood, highlighting the ongoing tensions between rival fans in Brazilian football.

The injured fan was taken to Cajuru Hospital with a severe head injury and heavy bleeding but was conscious at the time of transport. Police are reviewing footage to identify both victims and aggressors in the incident. The authorities are gathering evidence to hold those responsible accountable for their actions amid growing concern over football-related violence in Brazil. This incident underscores the persistent problem of clashes between rival football fans in the country which has led to calls for greater safety measures during sporting events.

As the investigation develops, it remains unclear if there were any additional injuries among other fans present during the brawl. The police have detained 35 individuals suspected of involvement in the violence, signaling a strong response to the increasing incidents of disorder associated with football culture. The violent encounter puts a spotlight on the need for improved security protocols at football matches to prevent future incidents and protect fans.