FIFA has confirmed that it is investigating a 'bust-up' at the World Cup after claims that Chile striker Mauricio Pinilla was punched by Brazilian official Rodrigo Paiva at half time during Saturday's match.

Paiva, Brazil's communications director, has admitted to "pushing" Pinilla but said that he only did so in self-defence.

A FIFA spokeswoman told a news conference in Rio de Janeiro: "We can confirm there has been an incident and the disciplinary committee is currently analysing the matter."

According to PA, Paiva told Brazilian reporters that there was widespread pushing between the two squads.

He said: "It was not just me. Pinilla came towards me and I just defended myself. I reacted by pushing him."

Pinilla, who plays for Italian side Cagliari, came off the bench and nearly won the match for Chile in the last seconds of extra time when his shot from the edge of the area rattled back off the crossbar.

He was then one of three Chileans to miss a penalty in the shootout, which Brazil won 3-2 to advance to the last eight.