What was meant to be a night of football turned into one of the darkest chapters in the sport’s history. Universidad de Chile have accused Independiente and the Argentine police of failing to protect their supporters during shocking scenes of violence at Wednesday’s Copa Sudamericana last-16 match in Buenos Aires.
The game was abandoned after violent clashes broke out in the stands, leaving 19 Chilean supporters in hospital.
How the Violence Started
The trouble began at half-time when objects – including a stun grenade – were thrown from the away section toward Independiente fans below. Soon after, chaos erupted. Home fans stormed into the visiting section, attacking Universidad de Chile supporters and forcing many to flee for safety.
The situation became so dangerous that the match had to be abandoned in the second half.
Fans Seriously Hurt
Universidad de Chile confirmed that 16 of their 19 injured fans have been discharged from hospital. Sadly, one supporter remains in intensive care after undergoing surgery for a skull fracture, though doctors say his condition has improved.
The Chilean club released a strong statement, saying the night will be “remembered as one of the most violent chapters in the history of football.” They allege that Independiente fans “entered the visiting section unhindered” and carried out “extremely violent and inhuman acts.”
The club also accused rival fans of trying to break into the away dressing room to attack their players, and said their team bus windows were smashed.
Worryingly, they claim that around 100 of their own supporters were arrested, but not a single home fan has been detained.
Independiente Respond
Independiente have rejected the accusations, saying the violence began with Universidad de Chile fans before the match even kicked off. According to their version, away supporters damaged restroom facilities, disabled the CCTV system, and launched fireworks at home fans.
The Argentine club admitted there were “unacceptable attacks” in response but insisted they did not fail on safety measures. They promised to ban anyone from their fanbase who took part in the violence and also said they will seek compensation for damages to their stadium.
“Violence does not represent us,” their statement concluded.
Global Reaction
The shocking scenes have drawn worldwide condemnation. FIFA president Gianni Infantino called the attacks “barbaric” and urged local authorities to hold those responsible accountable.
“Violence has no place in football – players, fans, staff, officials and everyone who enjoys our beautiful game should be able to do so without fear,” Infantino said.
Conmebol, the body that oversees South American football, confirmed the match was abandoned due to a “lack of security guarantees from the local club and the local authorities.”
Even Buenos Aires provincial security minister Javier Alonso admitted the decision to stop the game came too late, saying: “It was clear that there was a very hostile attitude.”
A Dark Night for Football
Instead of celebrating the beauty of South American football, fans are left with images of violence, chaos, and fear. For Universidad de Chile and Independiente, the football result is now secondary to the safety and wellbeing of the people who came to watch.
This night will sadly be remembered as one of football’s most violent moments.
