Football match clashes in Argentina leave 10 hurt, 90 arrested
Violent clashes between rival fans marred the Copa Sudamericana match between Argentina’s Independiente and visiting Universidad de Chile resulting in ten injuries and the arrest of 90 individuals, authorities and club officials confirmed.
The match held at the Libertadores de America stadium was initially suspended shortly after halftime following escalating violence. The second-leg encounter was ultimately abandoned in the 48th minute with the score tied at 1-1. Universidad de Chile had claimed victory in the first leg 1-0.
The chaos erupted during the second half when Chilean supporters began throwing stones, sticks, bottles and seats at sections housing home fans. Tensions escalated further when a stun grenade was among the objects hurled prompting a chaotic scene. In a dramatic incident, a Chilean fan jumped from the stands in an attempt to escape attacking supporters after being cornered.
Home supporters stormed the away section beating and stripping some visiting fans. The scene was described as shocking and chaotic.
Security forces detained 90 individuals outside the stadium who were taken to police stations. Independiente club officials reported that ten fans had been injured during the clashes.
Chile’s ambassador to Argentina told a local a radio station that “there were stab wounds,” highlighting the severity of the violence. Chilean President Gabriel Boric condemned the disturbances on social media, calling for justice and criticizing the organizers for the situation.
Both clubs issued condemnations of the violence with Independiente president Nestor Grindetti describing the behavior of the Chilean supporters as “truly reprehensible.” Players from both sides attempted to appeal for calm but were unsuccessful.
Fans expressed frustration over perceived inadequate policing and the decision to place visiting supporters near the home supporters’ section.
This incident marks the latest in a series of violent episodes involving South American football matches. In April, two people died outside Santiago’s Monumental Stadium during clashes between Chile’s Colo Colo and Brazilian club Fortaleza.
The authorities continue to investigate the incident as tensions remain high ahead of upcoming fixtures.
