Global Sport

Chilavert, who led his side to the second round of the world cup last year, also saw a three-month suspended prison sentence upheld for an incident five years ago. Chilavert injured a player while playing for Velez Sarsfield against Gimnasia Y Esgrima in 1994.

Five sent off after 17-minute soccer brawl

RIO DE JANEIRO: Five players were sent off after a massive brawl involving players, officials, fans and police interrupted a Brazilian soccer match for 17 minutes.

Brazil international Romario, who had limped off with a muscle injury, left the team bench to join in the action during his team8217;s match away to Friburgense yesterday.

The bad-tempered Carioca Rio De Janeiro state championship match degenerated after Friburgense defender Max and Flamengo8217;s Vagner clashed in the second half. Other players, many aiming flying karate kicks and punches at each other, became involved. The fighting quickly spread as substitutes, team officials and even some supporters ran onto the pitch to join in, while police wielding truncheons attempted to restore order. Even Romario, who had a pack of ice around his injured thigh, was seen throwing his oar in.

The interruption caused by the free-for-all was timed at 17 minutes. Once play restarted, Max of Friburgense was sent off along with Flamengo goalkeeper Clemer and central defender Fabao.