BUENOS AIRES – Violence once again marred South American football as a Copa Sudamericana Round-of-16 match between Independiente and Universidad de Chile was abandoned following a night of unprecedented chaos that left ten people injured and over 90 arrested.
The tension ignited shortly after halftime at the Libertadores de América Stadium when fans from both sides began clashing violently. According to witnesses, chaos erupted after a section of supporters hurled projectiles, including stones, sticks, and even stadium seats, turning the stands into a battlefield.
Videos circulating on social media showed horrifying scenes — a Chilean supporter leaping from the stands in an attempt to escape an enraged mob, while others were beaten and stripped of their clothing by rival fans. Panic spread rapidly, with families and children caught in the crossfire desperately seeking safety.
The match, tied 1–1 at the 48th minute, was promptly suspended by officials as security forces struggled to regain control. Universidad de Chile had entered the match with a 1–0 advantage from the first leg.
Law enforcement later confirmed that 90 individuals were taken into custody, with several facing charges of aggravated assault and destruction of property. Emergency responders reported that at least one victim sustained serious injuries, including stab wounds, while others were treated for head injuries and fractures.
The Chilean government condemned the violence, with President Gabriel Boric demanding a thorough investigation and calling the incident a disgrace for the sport. Chile’s ambassador in Argentina criticized stadium authorities for failing to maintain safe zones for visiting supporters, citing negligence in seating arrangements that placed rival fans dangerously close to one another.
On the other side, Independiente’s management claimed that traveling fans provoked the clashes, labeling their behavior “unacceptable and disgraceful.” Meanwhile, regional football bodies have vowed to review security protocols to prevent a repeat of such incidents.
This is not the first time Argentina’s passionate football culture has spiraled into violence. The country has long struggled with hooligan groups, locally known as barra bravas, whose influence extends from stadiums to organized crime networks. The latest episode underscores a growing demand for stricter crowd control, modern surveillance systems, and heavier penalties for violent offenders to curb a menace that threatens the spirit of the game.
Football authorities across South America now face mounting pressure to enforce change before tragedy strikes again, as calls grow louder for a united front against fan violence.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.