Violent scenes in Brazil after Atletico Mineiro beat Arsenal overshadow Ronaldinho show in the Copa Libertadores

Gun carrying police became involved in ugly clashes in Brazil

Violent clashes erupted in Brazil last night between players and the military after Ronaldinho inspired Atletico Mineiro to a thumping 5-2 victory over Argentinian rivals Arsenal in the Libertadores Cup.

Incensed at the resounding defeat, several members of the visiting team were quick to confront match officials and were met with swift and heavy resistance from Brazillian military police, who were armed with guns, shields and batons.

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At least four members of the Arsenal squad were detained after the clashes in which they were seen fighting with police, and they could face further punishment.

The lieutenant colonel of Minas Gerais police, Cicero, was quick to defend the strong actions of his men after the final whistle: "It was criminal conduct, out of place at a football match. (The Argentines) could be arrested," he was quoted as saying on the Globo internet portal (globoesporte.globo.com).

33-year-old Ronaldinho, whose side are already through to the knockout phase of South America's equivalent of the Champions League, netted twice for the hosts in a fiery encounter. The Brazil international celebrated during the match with a gun gesture.

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