The Copa América semifinal between Colombia and Uruguay on July 10, 2024, ended in a violent brawl involving players, fans, and family members, overshadowing Colombia’s 1-0 victory. The chaos erupted after the final whistle when Uruguayan players, including Darwin Núñez and Ronald Araujo, entered the stands to confront Colombian fans.Uruguayan players claim they were protecting their families from aggressive Colombian supporters. José María Giménez, Uruguay’s captain, stated, ‘Our loved ones were in danger and we had to intervene. There was not a single policeman and they made a stampede on our families’. However, some reports and social media videos suggest that Uruguayan fans may have initiated the conflict.The altercation quickly escalated, with players and fans exchanging punches and throwing objects. Darwin Núñez was seen throwing a chair at Colombian fans, while other players were involved in physical confrontations. The mother of Manuel Ugarte reportedly fainted and required medical attention. The brawl lasted over 10 minutes before police intervention.The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) has strongly condemned the violence, stating, ‘There is no place for intolerance and violence inside and outside the pitch’. The organization has launched an investigation into the incident, which could potentially result in suspensions for players involved.The violent outburst has raised concerns about security measures, particularly as the United States prepares to host the 2026 World Cup. Football commentator Jonas Schwartz criticized the American organizers, stating, ‘It was predictable given the intense emotions and rivalries in South American football. Placing Colombian fans near the families of Uruguayan players was a mistake’.Despite the chaotic end, Colombia advanced to the Copa América final, where they will face Argentina on July 15 in Miami. Uruguay will play Canada for third place on July 14.
Key points
- A violent brawl erupted after the Copa América semifinal between Colombia and Uruguay, involving players and fans.
- Uruguayan players claim they were protecting their families from aggressive Colombian fans, but some reports suggest Uruguayan fans may have initiated the conflict.
- CONMEBOL has condemned the violence and launched an investigation, which could result in player suspensions.
- The incident has raised concerns about security measures for the upcoming 2026 World Cup in the USA.
Contradictions👾There are conflicting reports about who initiated the brawl.
Uruguayan players claim they were protecting their families from aggressive Colombian fans, while some sources suggest Uruguayan fans may have started the conflict.
👾The exact duration of the brawl is unclear, with some reports stating it lasted over 10 minutes, while others do not specify a timeframe.
