At least one person was killed and several others injured on April 3 during a pre-match event at Alejandro Villanueva Stadium in Peru’s capital, ahead of a high-profile derby between Alianza Lima and Universitario.
The club Alianza Lima confirmed the fatality and expressed condolences, saying it was cooperating fully with authorities and pledging “total transparency” as investigations continue into the cause of the incident.
Media reports indicated that around 60 people were injured during a flag-waving event at the stadium, commonly known as Matute, the Straits Times reports.
The circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear, although initial assessments ruled out structural damage. Alianza Lima stated that no part of the stadium infrastructure had failed, a position also supported by fire officials.
Fire department spokesperson Marco Pajuelo told Canal N that preliminary inspections found no evidence of structural collapse or debris, adding that no individuals appeared to have fallen into a pit during the incident.
Despite the tragedy, the Peruvian Professional Football League confirmed that the scheduled April 4 match would go ahead as planned.
The league also emphasized ongoing coordination with clubs and authorities to ensure safety at sporting events both inside and outside stadiums.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the incident.
