Violence erupts in Argentina after World Cup loss

Violent clashes have erupted in Argentina’s capital, Buenos Aires, over the defeat of the country’s national soccer team against Germany in the 2014 FIFA World Cup final match.

Argentinean security forces fired rubber bullets and tear gas canisters at the stone-throwing protesters who had gathered at the capital’s iconic Obelisk monument on Sunday.

The clashes between the protesters and police forced families with small children to seek shelter in restaurants or hotel lobbies.

Most of the crowd dispersed as a smoke of tear gas settled over the area; however, a group of hooligans continued to clash with riot police.

According to initial reports, at least 15 police members were wounded; over 30 protesters were also arrested by security forces.

The violence erupted after tens of thousands of Argentineans gathered peacefully at the Obelisk to celebrate despite the 1-0 loss to Germany in extra-time. People waved flags, set off fireworks and sang praises of the national team.

The Argentinean national team was also cheered on in Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro, which hosted the World Cup final. More than 70,000 Argentinean fans had travelled to the city to show their support, only to be disappointed by their team’s defeat.