Argentine football is admired around the world. From the Messi or Maradona debate to the Superclásico, watching a ball roll across the grass is a can’t-miss part of any visit to Buenos Aires. But with incidents like the suspension of the 2018 Copa Libertadores — where River fans attacked the Boca bus, hurting the players —, reports of organized gangs attacking players, and brawls between fans and the police, you might be wondering: Is it safe to go to a football match in Argentina?
The first thing to note is that incidents and altercations get a lot more attention than games that go according to plan. As with all large public events, attendants’ discretion is advised given that flare-ups and heated arguments can happen, but most games end without incident.
It’s important to understand which........