In 2010, Diego Maradona had to deny that the national team had knowingly flown to South Africa with the "barras bravas"

Argentine football has become a no-go area with all away fans banned this season due to spiralling violence that has led to 70 people being killed since 2000.

However, organised bands of hooligans, called barras bravas, are still ruling the domestic football scene. Unlike their British counterparts, the Argentine versions are run as businesses, with members of the groups earning money from black-market sales, extortion, money-laundering and drugs.

Ringleaders are estimated to earn about £20,000 a year, while the groups demand large sums from players and club officials in return for their support. Last year three barras bravas from Racing Club threatened a player with guns and demanded he leave the club.

Those who have stood up to the hooligans, who also control the