Two young soccer fans are recovering from third-degree burns after being struck by a flare at Federation Square on Sunday morning.

Sam, 19, was among the huge crowd watching the Socceroos’ clash with Argentina when he was hit on the arm by the projectile after Australia scored.

He’s just been released from hospital and told 3AW it was a frightening experience.

“My skin was bubbling,” he said.

Press PLAY below to hear him explain what happened

His friend was struck in the side of the face.

“I found him about five minutes later in the medic bay,” he said.