Chaos at Copa America: Uruguay Players Fight Colombia Fans
Uruguayan striker Darwin Nunez and several teammates engaged in a confrontation with Colombia fans at Bank of America Stadium following Uruguay's 1-0 loss in the Copa America semifinals on Wednesday.
Nunez, visibly agitated, was seen throwing punches amidst a chaotic scene where beverages and debris were hurled towards Uruguayan players. Defender Jose Gimenez stated that the players intervened to protect their families, who were outnumbered and vulnerable in the crowd.
"The incident stemmed from a few individuals who were intoxicated and posed a threat," said Ignacio Alonso, president of the Uruguayan Football Association, addressing the altercation.
Prior to the players' involvement, scuffles had already broken out between opposing fans among the 70,000 spectators, predominantly supporting Colombia. Security personnel later restored order, with approximately 100 Uruguayan fans and staff remaining on the field after Colombian supporters departed.
CONMEBOL, the organizing body of Copa America, is investigating the incident and may impose sanctions. Liverpool FC is also investigating the incident involving their player Nunez.
Uruguay is set to face Canada in the tournament's third-place match on Saturday.