Celebrations of Chile's first World Cup win in 48 years have got a little out of hand in the capital, Santiago.

Cheers had gone up across the country as they beat Honduras 1-0 in their opening game at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

But the party in the capital turned sour as police tried to disperse supporters who were throwing bottles and other objects at passing cars.

Water cannons and tear gas were used to clear the crowds, but some fans responded by pelting police with objects.

Police reportedly arrested 18 people and at least five others were hurt in clashes between police and football fans.

President Sebastian Pinera watched the match in Dichato, a town that was almost flattened in February's devastating earthquake.

He shared the highs and lows of the game with the crowd and leapt with joy when Jean Beausejour scored what turned out to be the the winning goal.

It was Chile's first at a World Cup finals since they staged the competition in 1962. It was also the team's first World Cup appearance since 1998.