Mauricio Savarese – AP Sports Writer
SAO PAULO (AP) — Three top-flight clubs on Monday asked the Brazilian soccer federation to cancel domestic league matches for the next 20 days due to severe flooding.
Internacional, Gremio and Juventud are based in the Rio Grande do Sul state, which has been affected by flooding since last week.
At least 83 people have died in the region over the past seven days, and another 111 are missing, authorities said.
The stadiums of Internacional and Gremio in the regional capital Porto Alegre were flooded and suffered extensive damage.
Internacional said in a statement: “Our absolute priority at this time is to support the thousands of people affected.” “At such a delicate and special moment, we ask for your understanding, solidarity, empathy and support.”
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All three clubs' matches for the fifth round of the Brazilian league over the weekend have been suspended. Internacional are in 9th place with seven points, three behind leaders Atlético Paranaense.
Gremio are in 11th place with 6 points, while Juventude are in 11th place with 5 points in the competition.
The Brazilian Football Federation said it would consider the request.
More than 80,000 people have been forced to flee their homes due to the damage caused by the rains. About 15,000 people have evacuated to schools, gymnasiums and other temporary evacuation centers.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva visited Rio Grande do Sul for the second time on Sunday, accompanied by Defense Minister José Musio, Finance Minister Fernando Haddad and Environment Minister Marina Silva. The leftist leader and his team surveyed the flooded streets of Porto Alegre from a helicopter.
During Sunday Mass at the Vatican, Pope Francis said he was praying for the people of the Vatican.
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