Violence at the Copa América: CONMEBOL Reacts, Uruguay Speaks of Families in Danger

Violence at the Copa América: CONMEBOL Reacts, Uruguay Speaks of Families in Danger

Violence at the Copa América: CONMEBOL Reacts, Uruguay Speaks of Families in Danger

The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) condemned "acts of violence in football," although it refrained from directly addressing the clashes between Uruguayan players and Colombian fans at the Copa América.

"There is no place for intolerance and violence on and off the field. CONMEBOL strongly condemns any act of violence that affects football," the organization stated in a press release.

The controversy unfolded when Darwin Núñez, Ronald Araújo, and José Giménez, among other Uruguayan players, went into the stands to engage in fistfights with Colombian fans after the 1-0 defeat in the Copa América semi-final, held on Wednesday in Charlotte, United States. Following the incidents, José Giménez claimed that the families of Uruguayan players in the stands were "in danger" due to the actions of some Colombian fans.

Before the altercation with Colombian fans and after the match that resulted in Uruguay's elimination from the Copa América, a violent brawl also broke out between players from both teams in the center of the field. "We invite everyone for the remaining days [of the tournament] to dedicate all their passion to supporting their teams and making it an unforgettable celebration," added CONMEBOL.

The president of the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF), Ignacio Alonso, corroborates José Giménez's version and assures that the players "were simply protecting their families" in the stadium stands. "So far, what we had was an internal discussion, knowing that there was a natural, instinctive reaction from a father, a husband, a brother, a son, upon seeing their family in a difficult moment and noticing that evacuation to the field, as indicated by the protocol, was not allowed," said Ignacio Alonso.

Colombia qualified for the final of the 48th edition of the Copa América on Wednesday by defeating Uruguay 1-0, with a goal from Jefferson Lerma in the 39th minute. The Colombians played the entire second half with 10 men due to Daniel Muñoz's expulsion for accumulating yellow cards at 45+1 minutes.

In the final, scheduled for Sunday at 8:00 PM local time (1:00 AM Monday in mainland Portugal), in Miami, Florida, the Cafeteros, who won the tournament in 2001, will face Argentina. Argentina has won the Copa América 15 times and is the current title holder.

CONMEBOL's condemnation of violence underscores the organization's commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport. Despite the dramatic turn of events, the tournament continues to capture the passion and dedication of football fans, with a highly anticipated final that promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the Copa América.

  • Top Countries
  • Around the web
Amorim wants to clarify controversial statement

Amorim wants to clarify controversial statement

Rúben Amorim has revisited his statement that his team faced "perhaps the worst Manchester United ever." The Portuguese manager faced significant criticism for his comment but claimed that it was misunderstood and not intended the way most people interpreted it.

Raphinha responds to altercation in the players  tunnel:  They insulted me

Raphinha responds to altercation in the players' tunnel: 'They insulted me'

Tensions ran high after Tuesday night's spectacular Champions League clash between Benfica and Barcelona (4-5). Not only were the Portuguese furious about several decisions made by referee Danny Makkelie, but according to Spanish media, there was also a confrontation in the players' tunnel involving both teams after the match.

Keylor Navas reaches an agreement with a club and will play in Argentina

Keylor Navas reaches an agreement with a club and will play in Argentina

Keylor Navas, one of the most accomplished goalkeepers of his generation, is set to join Argentine club Newell’s Old Boys. The 38-year-old Costa Rican, a three-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid, has reached a verbal agreement and is expected to sign a one-year contract.

The grueling training sessions at AC Milan:  At first, they thought I was a baby

The grueling training sessions at AC Milan: 'At first, they thought I was a baby'

Urby Emanuelson reflected on how AC Milan prepared him for Italian football. At Milanello, he had to work incredibly hard, gained kilos of muscle, and ultimately soared across the field.

Candid Mbappé opens up about mental struggles since moving to Madrid

Candid Mbappé opens up about mental struggles since moving to Madrid

Kylian Mbappé has experienced challenging times since his move from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid. The Frenchman revealed this during a press conference ahead of the Champions League match against Red Bull Salzburg.

Promise Neymar never fulfilled: forward returns to Brazil

Promise Neymar never fulfilled: forward returns to Brazil

At 32 years old, and after nearly a year and a half with very little playing time, the forward is preparing to leave Al Hilal and return to Santos. Only a few details remain to finalize his departure from Saudi Arabia, whether on loan or permanently. The Brazilian international aims to play regularly with the 2026 World Cup in mind.

Gimenez refuses to call it a crisis:  Fewer words, more action

Gimenez refuses to call it a crisis: 'Fewer words, more action'

Santiago Gimenez refused to call it a crisis at Feyenoord ahead of the Champions League clash with Bayern Munich. The Mexican striker sees the match against the German powerhouse as a great opportunity to make amends.

Van Dijk shines:  The top favorite for the Ballon d Or

Van Dijk shines: 'The top favorite for the Ballon d'Or'

Liverpool's victory over Lille in the group stage of the Champions League has brought a lot to the English club. Liverpool is now guaranteed a spot in the Round of 16, Mohamed Salah reached a milestone, and both Arne Slot and Virgil van Dijk stand out in the statistics. The central defender is even regarded as a favorite for the Ballon d'Or.

Sahin remains icy calm ahead of the  match of truth

Sahin remains icy calm ahead of the 'match of truth'

The position of Borussia Dortmund coach Nuri Sahin was already precarious and has certainly not been strengthened after yet another defeat in the Bundesliga. The eventual loss to Eintracht Frankfurt was not decisive for Sahin's future, but according to German media, the outlook has changed with the next crucial match approaching. Sahin himself says he does not feel any pressure.

Sahin dismissed as Dortmund coach shortly after Champions League defeat

Sahin dismissed as Dortmund coach shortly after Champions League defeat

Nuri Sahin has been dismissed as head coach of Borussia Dortmund shortly after their Champions League defeat to Bologna. The club confirmed the decision on Wednesday morning. The Turkish coach had been under significant pressure for some time. Mike Tullberg, the Under-19 coach, will take charge for Saturday's match against Werder Bremen.

Odd:1.38