Shocking moment a GRENADE is thrown onto pitch ahead of Argentine showdown between Rosario Central and Newell’s

A GRENADE was thrown onto the pitch before an Argentine game on Sunday.

Rosario Central and Newell’s Old Boys were preparing to face off in a big South American clash.

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A grenade was thrown onto the pitch prior to the game[/caption]

Twitter @Newells_en

It scarily exploded on the pitch in ugly pre-match scenes[/caption]

Twitter @Newells_en

The smoke ascended immediately after the explosion[/caption]

But incredible scenes ensued before a ball had even been kicked when a fan threw an object onto the pitch.

And it quickly became clear it was a grenade when an explosion occurred on the turf.

Smoke then surrounded one corner of the penalty area as supporters were left in disbelief.

The visiting side, Newell’s Old Boys, tweeted the video.

And the club added: “The moment a grenade was thrown onto the pitch prior to the Clasico Rosarino.”

Newell’s Old Boys went on to win the match 1-0.

A goal from Juan Manuel Garcia six minutes into the second half was enough to clinch all three points.

A number of high-profile players once featured for Newell’s Old Boys before moving to Europe and becoming global superstars.

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Gabriel Batistuta, Walter Samuel and Maxi Rodriguez were among those to play for the Argentine side.

Mauricio Pochettino also started his playing career at the club back in the 1980s.

Meanwhile, Leo Messi was a product of their youth set-up but left for Barcelona at an early age.