Violence overshadowed the second leg of the Copa Sudamericana’s round of 16 between Independiente and Universidad de Chile, culminating in serious injuries and hospitalizations for fans. During the match in Buenos Aires, an outbreak of violence led to a suspension, with reports indicating that two fans were stabbed and one sustained life-threatening injuries.
A number of fans were transported to local hospitals, many in serious condition as reported by TyC Sports. Eye witnesses noted one fan falling from the top-tier sections of the stadium. The press team for Independiente reassured that no fatalities had occurred and referred to the injuries sustained as ’light’ as of the latest updates from Wednesday night.
TyC Sports shared that CONMEBOL, the governing body for South American soccer, had made the controversial decision to remove police from the away supporters’ section to prevent “disturbances.”
The match has since been formally canceled without plans for a replay, with the resolution left in the hands of CONMEBOL’s judicial team.
Approximately an hour after the incident, over 300 fans from Universidad de Chile were reported arrested. The team announced that 12 supporters were hospitalized, with four currently still receiving care.
The turmoil began during the first half when fans from Universidad de Chile started throwing projectiles onto the home section below. Within only four minutes of the second half, referee Gustavo Tejera called time to address the escalating situation. The barra brava of Independiente, notorious for their turbulent behavior, charged at U. de Chile fans, leading to a gruesome attack witnessed by many.
Eyewitnesses assert that Universidad de Chile fans had been launching seats, rocks, and even a toilet at the opposing supporters, creating a chaotic atmosphere. Many left the stadium bloodied and some were seen without clothing due to theft. Chaotic clashes intensified between spectators and security, prompting calls for fans to depart from their seats to defuse the situation.
What’s being said
Chile’s President Gabriel Boric Font said:
“What transpired in Avellaneda between fans from Independiente and Universidad de Chile is inexcusable, stemming from both supporter violence and organizational neglect. Justice needs to hold accountable those responsible. Our immediate priority is ensuring the wellbeing of our countrymen who faced assaults and guaranteeing their rights are upheld while in detention. Collaboration is ongoing with the Embassy, Consulate, Foreign Ministry, and Interior Ministry.”
Universidad de Chile stated:
“CONMEBOL has officially stated that the return match with Independiente is canceled, and we anticipate a resolution from the appropriate authorities. However, in light of today’s events, sports take a secondary role, and we prioritize the welfare of our fans who faced brutal attacks at Estadio Libertadores de América. Such violence should never take place in any stadium or venue.”
Independiente President Nestor Grindetti remarked via TyC Sports:
“The safety measures enforced were rational, and the ticket distribution to the visiting fans was pre-agreed with CONMEBOL. Such deplorable actions by U. supporters have occurred, including destruction of our facilities and throwing materials into the audience – the violence witnessed was unprecedented. Our fanbase did not merit such treatment; it is clear that the disturbances originated solely from one fan group. Our franchise’s conduct has always been commendable.”
Universidad de Chile’s Felipe Loyola, who plays as a midfielder, expressed:
“Such extreme violence is intolerable. I’m devastated; the events of today are a tremendous disgrace. I can hardly comprehend what I witnessed; this isn’t football—sports shouldn’t embody violence.”
