The Estadio Nacional disaster of 24 May 1964 , involving Peruvian supporters , is cited as one of the worst tragedies in football history . During a qualifying match for the 1964 Olympics between Peru 's under-20 team and its counterpart from Argentina , the Uruguayan referee Angel Payos disallowed a would-be Peruvian equaliser , alleging rough play . Spectators threw missiles from the stands while two fans invaded the pitch and attacked the referee . Police threw tear gas into the crowd , causing a stampede ; trying to escape , fans were crushed against the stadium 's locked gates . A total of 315 people died in the chaos , with more than 500 others injured
Estadio Nacional disaster
Estadio Nacional disaster
Peru national football team