Copa America: Tension As Major Fight Breaks Out After Colombia Defeated Uruguay (PHOTOS)

Liverpool star Darwin Nunez and other Uruguay players were involved in a confrontation with Colombian fans following their 1-0 Copa America semi-final defeat on Wednesday.

The brawl happened at Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium after an ill-tempered match against Colombia.

Nunez was seen throwing punches at Colombian supporters after leaping into the spectator seating. Uruguay central defender Jose Maria Gimenez explained that players rushed into the crowd out of concern for the safety of their family members who were watching the game.

“Our families were in danger. We had to go to the stands to protect our loved ones, including newborn babies,” said Gimenez, who plays for Atletico Madrid. “There wasn’t a single police officer present. I hope the organizers take more care with families in the future.”

The majority of the crowd supported Colombia, but there was no segregation between Colombian and Uruguayan fans. Several Uruguay players, including Nunez, climbed into the crowd to protect their fans.

The situation escalated for several minutes until police intervened. A group of around 80-100 Uruguayan fans remained in the stadium long after the rest of the spectators had left, with Uruguay players returning to the field to meet them.

Tensions also flared on the field after the final whistle, resulting in a mass melee involving players and staff from both teams at the center circle.

CONMEBOL, the South American football confederation that organizes the Copa America, issued a statement condemning the violence. “CONMEBOL strongly condemns any acts of violence that affect football. Soccer should connect and unite us through its positive values. There is no place for intolerance and violence on and off the pitch. We urge everyone to channel their passion into supporting their national teams and enjoying the tournament peacefully,” the statement read.

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