Thousands of Boca Juniors fans were doused by firefighters as a former Manchester United star witnesses some extraordinary scenes in Argentina.
The South American giants were in the midst of a 5-0 win over Argentino Monte Maíz in the Copa Argentina in Santa Fe. The scorching heat was affecting thousands of La Boca supporters in the stands at the Estadio Brigadier General Estanislao López. So an unusual solution was found. A clip has emerged on X of local firefighters blasting water at melting supporters, who danced and sang with glee while being soaked by the barrage.
But the strange scenes did not stop there. During a 30th minute water break a dog was pictured swimming in a trough that hugged the side of the pitch. A number of staff looked panicked as they tried to pull the pooch out, who appeared to be struggling to stay afloat. Luckily a quick-thinking steward came to the rescue and pulled the dog out as the players took a breather on the pitch.
The scenes will have come as a shock to former Man United midfielder Ander Herrera who sparkled on his debut for La Boca. Coach Fernando Gago, once of Real Madrid, played him from the start earning rave reviews from local sports media outlets. The 35-year-old started his career at La Liga side Athletic Bilbao before sealing a move to the Red Devils in 2014. He featured for five seasons before joining PSG on a free. He returned to Bilbao for two years before embarking on his South American adventure.
Upon signing he said: “Boca is a giant, special club, with a unique history and passion. Many years ago my father worked here, he talked to me a lot about Boca and I have maintained that passion since I was a child. I have been able to experience La Bombonera as a fan and as a player, I have been told that it is something unique, that it gives you goosebumps”.
He added: “I am not nervous. All this makes me very happy and full of expectations. I am very grateful for the affection. Now I will have to earn respect. I am very excited, I am looking forward to playing at La Bombonera. Thank you for this welcome”.