An official statement has been issued after violence erupted between players and fans following the Copa America semi-final between Uruguay and Colombia.
Jefferson Lerma scored the only of the goal of the game in the 39th minute to help Colombia secure their spot in the final against Argentina on Monday, but the victory has been overshadowed by the brawl that took place immediately after the match.
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As the final whistle was blown, a fight between the two rival sets of fans broke out in the stands, with it claimed that beverages had also been thrown.
With it believed that some the Uruguayan stars' family were being targeted, Liverpool star Darwin Nunez was seen going up to the stands and getting involved in the fight, and could be seen throwing and receiving punches from a Colombian supporter.
Here's the video of Nunez jumping up into the stands. He is told something by his significant other before he goes ballistic. #Uruguay #Colombia #CopaAmerica pic.twitter.com/Wvg8TXGi0b
— Favian Renkel (@FavianRenkel) July 11, 2024
Sangue uruguaio de Darwin Nunez. O homem é uma máquina. pic.twitter.com/TWBC8fhuWr
— Anfield Brasil (@Anfieldbr) July 11, 2024
After the chaotic scenes required police intervention to bring everything back under control, the South American Football Confederation CONMEBOL released a statement condemning any acts of violence in football.
"Our work is based on the conviction that soccer connects and unites us through its positive values," the organisation's statement read, per the Toronto Star.
"There is no place for intolerance and violence on and off the field.
"We invite everyone in the remaining days to pour all of their passion into cheering on their national teams and having an unforgettable party."
Fans were asked to leave the stadium after police managed to calm things down, although some reports indicate that it took more than 10 minutes for police to respond.
However, it is claimed that about 100 Uruguayan fans stayed behind while Colombian fans, who made up of over 70 000 of the supporters on the night, made their way out the stadium.
Uruguay captain Jose Gimenez also spoke on the matter, stating that the players got involved to try and protect their families.
"This is a disaster. Our family is in danger," he told Mexican channel TUDN.
"We had to get into the stands to take out our loved ones with small babies, newborns.
"Everything was a disaster. There was not a single police officer."
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It remains to be seen if Liverpool's Nunez will see any consequences for his actions, but rumours suggest a ban could be forthcoming.