Emiliano Martinez attempted to intervene after witnessing security personnel wielding batons towards Argentina fans at the Estadio do Maracan on Tuesday night.
Kick-off in the World Cup qualifier between Brazil and Argentina was delayed by 28 minutes due to violent unrest in one area of the stadium.
As well as fans fighting between themselves, some of the violence appeared to involve security staff attacking Argentina supporters.
Players from both teams walked towards the area in an apparent attempt to diffuse the situation - although Argentina goalkeeper Martinez was visibly furious.
The Aston Villa stopper was seen trying to slap a baton out of one police officer's hand before being held back by one of his international teammates.
EL DIBU DEFENDIENDO A LOS HINCHAS ARGENTINOS EN MEDIO DE LA REPRESIÓN POLICIAL pic.twitter.com/iEXBISudaW
— TyC Sports (@TyCSports) November 22, 2023
Moments later, Argentina captain Lionel Messi ordered his team to return to the locker rooms.
The match eventually began at 9.58pm local time.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!