RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil - In the wake of clashes involving hundreds of supporters from Boca Juniors and Fluminense in Rio de Janeiro, which occurred just two days before the Copa Libertadores final, the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) has issued a strong condemnation of the violence.

The football governing body appealed through their X account, calling on the fans of both teams to instead celebrate the joy that football brings. “CONMEBOL urges Boca Juniors and Fluminense fans to together cherish the moments of joy and celebration our beloved sport provides. The sport’s values should inspire peace and harmony, not violence or racism. We vehemently denounce any such acts of aggression that may occur around this final match,” CONMEBOL stated.

This statement came shortly after a violent episode on the Copacabana beach where a large group of the Brazilian club’s supporters aggressively ousted Boca Juniors fans from the sandy beach.

The police had already intensified their presence in Copacabana in anticipation of such events but ultimately had to resort to tear gas to break up the brawling supporters.

Footage and images of the altercation quickly spread on social media, with Argentine fans voicing their distress over the aggression they experienced.

Amidst the turmoil, only one Argentine was arrested, though the police have not disclosed the reasons behind this arrest.

The unrest occurred near a beach kiosk run by three Argentines, chosen by Boca fans as their meeting point despite CONMEBOL setting up a Fan Fest on the same beach.

Following an incident on Monday where a tourist couple was assaulted and robbed by three organized Fluminense fans—who were later apprehended—the Rio de Janeiro state government increased police presence at Argentine fan gathering spots.

Brazilian authorities are unsure of the exact number of Argentinians that will be in Rio de Janeiro for the Libertadores final on Saturday. Consular officials estimate that up to 100,000 Argentinians may descend upon the Brazilian city, many without tickets to the game.

To ensure safety, the regional government has boosted the usual city patrols with an additional 2,400 officers. These security measures are designed to protect fans around Maracanã Stadium and other fan congregation sites.