Conmebol “strongly condemns” the violence after the fight with Uruguayan players

Luis Suárez argues with members of the Colombian team following the Copa América semi-final match / Photo: EFE

The South American Football Confederation (Conmebol) “strongly condemned” in a statement “acts of violence in football,” although it avoided referring directly to the fight between Uruguayan players and Colombian fans following the Copa América semi-final between the two teams.

“There is no place for intolerance and violence on or off the pitch,” said Conmebol in a statement.
Darwin Núñez, Ronald Araújo and José María Giménez, among other Uruguayan players, climbed into the stands to fight with Colombian fans following losing 0-1 in the semifinal played this Wednesday at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte (North Carolina).

There was also a brawl between the players

Giménez later said on television that the families of the Celeste players in the stands were “in danger” due to the actions of some Colombian fans.

“Conmebol strongly condemns any act of violence that affects football,” it said in a statement.
“We invite everyone to put all their passion into cheering on their national teams and having an unforgettable party in the days that remain,” added Conmebol.

Before the fight with the fans and following the match had ended, a violent brawl broke out between players from both teams in the centre of the pitch.

Charlotte, USA / EFE