A Copa Sudamericana clash in Buenos Aires was abandoned after violent scenes broke out between fans of Independiente and Universidad de Chile.
According to local media, at least ten people were seriously injured and more than 300 were arrested during the chaos at the Estadio Libertadores de América in Avellaneda on Wednesday night.
The second-leg last-16 tie had been balanced at 1-1 on the night, with Universidad de Chile holding a 2-1 lead on aggregate, when violence forced the game to be called off.
How the trouble started
The trouble flared at half-time when objects were thrown at home supporters. In the second half, sections of the Independiente crowd reportedly stormed into the away section, attacking visiting fans. Videos shared online appeared to show some Universidad de Chile supporters being beaten and stripped of their clothes as they tried to escape.
A stun grenade was also thrown, and one supporter was left badly hurt after falling from the top tier of the stand.
Reaction
Chilean president Gabriel Boric strongly condemned the violence, writing on social media:
“Nothing justifies a lynching. Nothing. What happened in Avellaneda is wrong in too many ways, from the violence among the supporters to the evident irresponsibility in the organisation. Justice must determine those responsible.”
He added that the government’s priority was to check on the condition of Chilean fans who were attacked, make sure they receive medical treatment, and ensure that the rights of those detained are respected.
Official response
South American football’s governing body, Conmebol, confirmed the match had been cancelled due to “a lack of security guarantees from the local club and local authorities.” The case has now been referred to its disciplinary committee.
The abandoned fixture has left questions over how the competition will proceed, with a final ruling from Conmebol still to come.
