Peruvian goalkeeper released after brief detention in Spain

By Beyza Binnur Donmez

GENEVA (AA) - Peruvian goalkeeper Pedro Gallese, 33, was released on Tuesday after a brief detention in Spain.

Gallese was arrested late Monday for attacking a Spanish National Police officer during some altercations registered at the hotel where his team was staying.

The incident took place after a brawl broke out between police officers and players who were watching Peruvian fans chanting outside the hotel on Monday night.

Mercedes Gonzalez, a Madrid government official, said Tuesday that Gallese was taken to the police station because he assaulted an officer.

Gonzalez added that they will also investigate whether excessive force was used by the police officers, but, she said, the officers acted to "guarantee the safety of everyone."

The Peruvian Soccer Federation expressed solidarity with its player on Monday and said the player would collaborate with authorities. It also asked its fans in Madrid to refrain from any violent actions.

Meanwhile, the Peruvian Foreign Ministry called for "an immediate clarification" about what happened from the Spanish authorities.

Peru's football team is in Madrid as they are set to play a friendly match with Morocco at Wanda Metropolitano Stadium later on Tuesday.

The goalkeeper could be called to appear before a judge in the coming days although he is released, police sources told Spanish news agency EFE.