Former Premier League striker sparks mass brawl on pitch after putting ball into empty net for controversial goal

CHILE striker Eduardo Vargas scored a controversial goal against Bolivia on Tuesday, sparking a mass brawl on the pitch.

Bolivia goalkeeper Carlos Lampe suffered an injury while receiving a pass-back from a defender and immediately called for medical assistance.

However, the match was not stopped and Vargas quickly made the most of the opportunity.

The striker quickly jumped onto the loose ball and passed it into an empty net.

Bolivia players were left furious and ran over to Vargas to confront him.

It sparked a huge brawl, with several players from both teams getting involved.

Lampe was eventually stretchered off and replaced by Guillermo Viscarra.

The goalkeeper was later found to have ruptured his Achilles tendon.

A statement from the Bolivia camp read: "The operation will be carried out at the MEDS Clinic in Santiago, Chile, at the end of the afternoon on Wednesday, September 11, in order to immediately begin the recovery process."

Vargas' goal was allowed to stand, but Bolivia went on to win 2-1 against Ricardo Gareca's side.

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The striker once spent a season-long loan spell with Queens Park Rangers in the Premier League.

He made 22 appearances for QPR in total and scored three goals.

Vargas now plays for Atletico Mineiro in Brazil.

Meanwhile, Southampton striker Ben Brereton Diaz endured a nightmare during the match after being hauled off in the 34th minute.

The 25-year-old was withdrawn early due to his performance, not an injury.