Emiliano Martinez pleads with police to stop violence as they clash with fans ahead of Brazil vs Argentina

Mass fighting then ensued and, as per Reuters, some Argentina fans responded by ripping up seats while others ran on to the pitch to escape the violence. One fan was seen with a bloodied head.

Argentina players were furious at the scenes, and Martinez was seen desperately trying to convince the police to stop the violence.

The Aston Villa goalkeeper could be seen attempting to climb one of the barricades while surrounded by team personnel.

Both Brazil and Argentina players looked on in horror at what was occurring, and Selecao captain Marquinhos told reporters after the game: "We were worried about the families, women and children that we were seeing in panic up there in the stands.

During the match, which was broadcast on TyC Sports, Argentina secured a 1-0 win through Nicolas Otamendi's 63rd-minute goal.

Fernando Diniz's side tried to get back into the game in the closing stages at the Maracana, but that task was made even harder on 81 minutes when Newcastle midfielder Joelinton was shown a straight red card.

But Brazil, who handed a start to Arsenal star Gabriel Jesus despite him being an injury doubt before the game, couldn't find the equaliser - and sit in a lowly sixth place in their South American World Cup qualifying group, with seven points from six games.