Fan dies, dozens hurt in Lima stadium crush before derby

A fan died and at least 60 others suffered injuries during a crowd crush at Alejandro Villanueva Stadium in Lima, Peru, on April 3, 2026. The incident unfolded in the south stands during a pregame flag-waving event ahead of Alianza Lima's Peruvian league match against rival Universitario the following day. Police rescued several trapped supporters amid the sudden influx of fans.

Alianza Lima identified the victim as Freddy Rony Cornetero Cueva in a statement and expressed condolences to his family. The club denied initial reports from Peru's Ministry of Health of a wall collapse inside the stadium, as did police. Fire brigadier Marcos Pajuelo confirmed dozens of injured people received hospital treatment, including three minors according to health officials.

Videos from local television captured a dense crowd in the south stands amid fireworks, with some injured fans visible afterward. Officials continue to investigate the exact cause. Alianza Lima and Universitario contest the Clásico del Fútbol Peruano, one of South America's fiercest rivalries that routinely draws massive, passionate crowds to the 35,000-capacity Alejandro Villanueva, Alianza Lima's home venue.

The Peruvian professional soccer league confirmed the Saturday match will proceed as scheduled despite Friday's tragedy.