Violence in Copa Sudamericana: Independiente vs. U. de Chile, match suspended

Avellaneda, Argentina – The Copa Sudamericana was marred by violence at the Libertadores de América Stadium, where Independiente and Universidad de Chile faced each other. A match that promised excitement ended up suspended due to serious incidents between the fans, leaving a balance of injured and detained.

Stadium Incidents

The match, corresponding to the round of 16, was suspended by Uruguayan referee Gustavo Tejera in the 48th minute, with the score tied 1-1. The decision was made after a series of attacks that began at the end of the first half. Fans of Universidad de Chile, located in the Bochini Alta stand, began throwing objects towards the Independiente fans. The situation escalated rapidly, involving the use of seats, pieces of concrete, tiles, sticks, and even toilets.

The Conmebol issued a statement informing the cancellation of the match due to the lack of security guarantees from the local club and the authorities. The situation worsened when, after several minutes of police inaction, the local fans entered the visiting stand, generating a brutal fight. As a result of the clashes, at least 10 people were injured and approximately 90 were arrested. In addition, around 300 Universidad de Chile fans were detained for review. Medical sources reported that three of the injured are in serious condition, including a Universidad de Chile fan who was transferred in critical condition to a medical center. Conmebol has announced that it will raise the case to its Judicial Bodies to determine the actions to be taken after the suspension of the match. All the information gathered will be sent to the Disciplinary Commission.

Reactions

Chile’s President Gabriel Boric condemned the violence and criticized Conmebol’s “irresponsibility.” Through social media, Boric expressed his concern for the safety of Chilean fans and players, and announced that the Chilean Foreign Ministry is working to ensure their safe return.

What happened in Avellaneda between the fans of Independiente and Universidad de Chile is wrong in too many ways, from the violence in the stands to the obvious irresponsibility in the organization. Justice will have to determine those responsible.

Gabriel Boric

The Chilean president also reported that he has instructed the ambassador to Argentina, José Antonio Viera Gallo, to go to the police station and the hospital to ensure the safety of the affected compatriots.