KUALA LUMPUR – The Uruguay national team players clashed with Colombian fans after a 1-0 defeat in the Copa America semi-final early this morning in the United States.
Shortly after the match, video footage captured several Uruguay players, including Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, confronting Colombian fans.
The forward climbed into the stands and reacted aggressively after a drink was thrown at him.
He was seen attempting to strike several Colombian fans before being forcibly restrained by police and teammates.
The South American Football Federation, Conmebol, which organises the tournament, said it strongly condemns the violence.
“Our work is based on the conviction that soccer connects and unites us through its positive values.
“There is no place for intolerance and violence on and off the field,” Conmebol said in a statement today.
According to local media, the incident occurred because several fans had consumed excessive alcohol and were causing a disturbance in the stands.
Uruguay captain Jose Maria Gimenez said the players went to the stands to protect their families, who were near the drunken fans.
Later, after the situation had settled down, Núñez was seen comforting his daughter.
Reports indicated that his wife and daughter were in the stands where the commotion took place. – July 11, 2024