Argentine hooligans staying at school during World Cup as police watch their actions

Argentine hooligans stay at local SAfrican school

PRETORIA, South Africa — Like typical hotel guests, the Argentine soccer fans sit around eating scrambled eggs, salad and other culinary delights.

Nothing strange about that — a group of men who’ve come here to watch their beloved team play at the World Cup. But these guys aren’t your average cheerleaders. They’re known hooligans, or “barras bravas.”

There are already 60 of them, bunking at the Christian Progressive College, and so far they seem to be enjoying it.

“We are taken care of like kings,” said one fan, who, like the rest, refused to give his name or even his nickname.

In return, the hooligans have promised to behave, offering to paint the school and do other community service acts while they’re in town.

They say they have come in peace.

The Associated Press was the only news organization given access to the school Monday, and some of the men grew nervous as questions were asked. “It’s cool brother, but I told you to get out of here,” one suggested.

Tensions eased with the appearance of Masego, the local cook and waiter at the school, bearing a tray of chicken, potatoes and fruit.

“They are all good and educated,” she said, smiling broadly. “They eat, watch television, dance, have fun, and live a normal life.”

Flags from various Argentine soccer clubs covered the white walls of the large dining hall, along with the blue and white of Argentina’s national team. There was also a giant television, but it wasn’t turned on.

The men living at the school occupy two floors, and hope to add to their numbers in the coming days. The World Cup opens Friday, and Argentina plays it first match on Saturday against Nigeria.

Greece and South Korea are also in Group B, but the Argentines are the favorites.

Earlier Monday, 10 Argentine hooligans said to be planning acts of violence at the World Cup were deported to Angola after having been detained at South Africa’s main airport.

One of them, Andres “Pillin” Bracamonte, was released from jail for lack of evidence on a charge of attempted murder, and a prosecutor and judge allowed him to travel despite being prosecuted for lesser crimes.

“Without a judge’s order, any Argentine citizen can leave and travel freely,” Argentine federal police spokesman Alejandro Farina told the AP.

The “barras bravas” are a force in Argentina, running bars, restaurants and parking areas near stadiums.

Their trip to South Africa generated plenty of controversy because of a reported tie with the government of Argentine President Cristina Fernandez. People are also questioning who paid for their trip.

Fans need about $8,000 to travel to South Africa from Buenos Aires, including plane tickets, room and board.

At the school, the hooligans are paying about $11 per day.

Fisher Makubela, a local police inspector who went to the school to check up on the men, said they have been behaving.

“So far, none of them has caused any problems,” Makubela said while watching the “barras bravas” finish their breakfast.