Angel Di Maria appears to spit at Brazil fans after chaotic World Cup qualifier vs Argentina

Former Manchester United and Real Madrid star Angel Di Maria appeared to spit at Brazil fans as tempers continued to flare after Argentina's World Cup qualifying win.

Argentina inflicted a first ever home World Cup qualifying defeat on Brazil on Tuesday night, with Nicolas Otamendi scoring the winner in the second half.

Newcastle midfielder Joelinton was sent off for a shove on Rodrigo De Paul in a game where there were 42 fouls.

But there was violence beforehand as fans clashed during the national anthems at the Maracana, causing Lionel Messi to lead his Argentina teammates off the pitch and into the changing rooms before the game eventually resumed half an hour later.

Emiliano Martinez was seen trying to plead with police officers and even attempting to grab a baton.

Image: Getty

Other ugly scenes have emerged as footage showed Di Maria in a volatile exchange with Selecao supporters.

As he and his teammates were heading down the tunnel, Brazil fans drenched Di Maria and he responded by spitting upwards in their direction.

The clip appears to be from before the game when Argentina players delayed kick-off over the unsavoury scenes.

Image: Getty

Messi condemned the "crazy" situation, stating it "can't be tolerated".

On Instagram, he wrote: "This team continues to make history... Great victory in the Maracana although it will be marked by the repression of the Argentinians once again in Brazil. This can't be tolerated, it's crazy and it needs to end now!!"

Fresh reports claim Brazil could be facing a points deduction following the trouble, as Article 17 of the FIFA disciplinary code reads: "Host clubs and associations are responsible for order and security both in and around the stadium before, during and after matches."

Brazil fell short of the rule, with Globo stating that an investigation will be opened and potential punishments include fines, playing games without fans, playing on a neutral ground or a points deduction.