One person has died and at least 60 others were injured at the Alejandro Villanueva Stadium in Lima, Peru, during a pre-match event on Friday. The incident occurred ahead of a derby match between local club Alianza Lima and Universitario de Deportes.
Hundreds of fans were attending a 'flag-waving event' around the stadium when the emergency unfolded. Initial reports suggested a wall collapse, but Alianza Lima and fire officials stated there were no structural failures. The cause remains under investigation.
Peruvian Health Minister Juan Carlos Velasco Guerrero confirmed the death and reported 47 injuries, with three in critical condition. Fire Chief Marcos Pajuelo told Canal N that the stadium's structure was unaffected, saying, 'There are no collapsed walls or sections fallen into the pit.'
The club expressed condolences and pledged full cooperation with authorities. The Peruvian professional soccer league confirmed Saturday's match would proceed as planned, emphasising a commitment to safety.
The Alejandro Villanueva Stadium, built in the 1970s, has a capacity of over 33,900 seats. Limited modernisation has occurred, though plans for upgrades, including expansion to 40,000 seats, have been discussed.
