MEDELLÍN, Colombia – The match between Deportivo Independiente Medellín and Clube de Regatas do Flamengo, valid for the fourth matchday of Group A of the Copa Libertadores, was abruptly suspended this Thursday, just four minutes after the initial whistle.
The main reason was the serious incidents involving fans at the Atanasio Girardot stadium.
The problem originated in one of the stadium stands, where supporters of the Colombian team were expressing their frustration with the team’s performance, which was recently eliminated from the local tournament.
The protest included the launching of fireworks from the north stand, generating a dense smoke that hindered visibility on the field.
In addition, objects were thrown and attempts were made to invade the playing field.
Faced with the situation, Venezuelan referee Jesús Valenzuela made the decision to stop the match and order both teams to return to the locker rooms while safety was assessed.
The images of the incident showed the players of Medellín and Flamengo awaiting instructions, while the authorities tried to control the situation in the stands.
So far, neither the South American Football Confederation nor the clubs involved have issued an official statement regarding the possible resumption or definitive suspension of the match.
