Two hospitalised in Federation Square flare drama as fans leave behind major mess

Two people have been hospitalised as thousands flocked to Federation Square to watch Australia play Argentina, and they left behind a major mess.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - NewsWire Photos, DECEMBER 4, 2022. Fans watch the World Cup soccer game between Australia and Argentina at Federation Square in Melbourne. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Crosling

Socceroos fans have left a massive mess behind in major cities after Australia lost to Argentina in the soccer World Cup on Sunday morning.

Fans flocked to public viewings early Sunday morning with 15,000 eager supporters packed into the at-capacity Federation Square.

Wild scenes ensued before the game had even started with flares being set off and thrown at the screen.

Two people were arrested as celebrations turned ugly in Federation Square on Sunday morning, when Australia bailed out of the World Cup courtesy of Argentina. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Crosling

The venue had reached capacity almost an hour before the match was due to begin, with police pepper-spraying fans who tried to force themselves into the venue.

Victoria Police said two officers were injured in the process.

Major mess was left behind from the packed crown after they left the venue.

Empty bottles were strewn across the floor while plastic littered the ground.

Mess was left by fans following the Socceroos’ loss to Argentina. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Crosling

Major mess was left behind from the packed crown after they left the venue. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Crosling

Devastated fans can be seen standing around as bags of fast food and cans remain on the floor.

Residue from flares can also be seen left on the ground after the crowd has left.

Victoria Police said two people had to be hospitalised with burns from flares.

Police also said a woman was injured from crowding, and a 17-year-old Mount Waverley boy was arrested for being drunk.

Two people were taken to hospital with burns after flares were lit in Federation Square. Picture: NCA NewsWire / David Crosling

“While it was pleasing to see the majority of the crowd responsibly supporting their team, a small number engaged in anti-social behaviour,” Victoria Police said on Sunday.

About 18,000 people also piled into AAMI Park to watch the match, in which Australia was defeated by Argentina.

Originally published as Two hospitalised in Federation Square flare drama as fans leave behind major mess