A football influencer was rushed to hospital after being attacked in the street just hours after watching a star packed legends match with Zinedine Zidane and Didier Drogba.
Mercedes Roa was allegedly assaulted while trying to protect a friend from a gang of youths.
The 25-year-old, who has 2.5 million Instagram followers, was there for events linked to the Universe League.
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The blockbuster match featured icons including ex-Real Madrid legend Zidane, former Chelsea ace Drogba, ex-Arsenal star Robert Pirès and former Barcelona great Gerard Piqué.
It was held at the Orange Velodrome stadium in Marseille, France, on Sunday (7 Dec).
After the game, the Mexican influencer headed to the Opéra district to meet friends.
But in the early hours, one of her pals was reportedly set upon by a group of young men.
When she saw her friend being attacked by at least four people, Mercedes jumped in and even managed to knock two suspects to the ground, according to local reports.
She was injured during the struggle.
Police arrived quickly and arrested three suspects at the scene, while Mercedes and her friend were taken to hospital for treatment.
Medical details have not been released, but her sister Camila Roa reassured fans on Instagram yesterday (8 Dec): “My sister is safe and sound. As soon as Mercedes is available, she will give you an update.”
French authorities say the suspects face charges of aggravated assault.
Mercedes has filed a formal complaint and is recovering while staying in close contact with her family in Mexico, as reported by Need To Know.
Even Marseille’s mayor, Benoît Payan, posted a message of support to her friends and family, promising full assistance.
The investigation continues.
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