With punches.. Uruguay players clash with Colombian fans in the stands (video)

Uruguay players, including Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez, clashed with Colombian fans after La Celeste lost 1-0 in the Copa America semi-finals on Wednesday.
Nunez threw a series of punches at Colombian fans after jumping into the stands at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, following a game marked by excessive roughness and violence that ended with Uruguay losing to Colombia with a header from Jefferson Lerma in the 39th minute.

Crazy scenes like a gang war | 🔥🔥

After the defeat to Colombia, Uruguay players entered the stands at Bank of America Stadium and began exchanging punches with the Colombian fans.

Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez was among those at the forefront.#CopaAmerica pic.twitter.com/1K3oYYjZQI

— Mohamed | spurs (@mstottenham) July 11, 2024

Uruguay defender Jose Maria Gimenez justified his teammates’ actions by saying they feared for the safety of their family members and loved ones who were watching the match.
“This is a disaster. Our family was in danger. We had to go to the stands to get our loved ones out, along with our newborn babies,” said the Atletico Madrid defender.
“There was not a single police officer there. I hope whoever is organising these events will be more careful with the families,” he added.
The vast majority of the fans supported the Colombian team, with no barriers separating them from the Uruguayan fans.
Several Uruguayan players, including Nunez, climbed into the stands, apparently to protect their fans. The fight between players and fans continued for several minutes until police intervened.
Violence also broke out on the pitch after the final whistle, with players and coaching staff from both teams getting into a fight after Colombia’s win.
The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL), which is organising the continental tournament, issued a statement condemning what happened: “CONMEBOL strongly condemns any acts of violence that affect football. Our work is based on the conviction that football connects and unites us through its positive values.”
“There is no place for fanaticism and violence on and off the pitch. We invite everyone in the remaining days to pour all their passion into supporting their national teams and create an unforgettable party,” he added.