Venezuela accuses the Peruvian government of “kidnapping” its national soccer team after the World Cup qualifier in Lima. Accordingly, the Peruvian government is said to have refused to refuel the guests’ plane before the return flight.
According to Foreign Minister Yvan Gil, this was another arbitrary act against the Venezuelans. “This is a kidnapping as revenge against our team, who played an extraordinary game in Lima,” the 51-year-old wrote on social media after the 1-1 draw.
The diplomatic dispute began immediately after the end of the game on Tuesday evening (local time). Venezuelan players accused the Peruvian police of beating them when they went to the stands to thank their fans who had traveled with them.
The Peruvian government denies the allegations and says there were no measures banning refueling. Steps would be taken to resolve the situation as soon as possible.
Peru is in a disappointing tenth place in the South American World Cup qualification, Venezuela is fourth after six games and is hoping for its first participation in a World Cup finals in the association’s history.