Uruguayan Players Clash with Colombian Fans Post-Match
After the Copa America semi-final on Wednesday night, Uruguayan players, including Darwin Núñez, confronted Colombian fans at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina. The incident intensified as supporters in the stands clashed, with players moving to protect their families, including children, in the stands. Video footage showed fans throwing objects like drink cans as security personnel intervened, eventually restoring order.
Visibly shaken, Darwin Núñez was consoled by his Liverpool team-mate Luis Diaz and fellow Uruguayan Luis Suarez. Captaining the team, José María Gimenez spoke to the media about the fear players felt for their families’ safety, with Gimenez describing it as a “disaster” and criticizing the lack of immediate police presence. He urged better security measures in future games, especially around family sections, to prevent such incidents.
The Uruguay Football Association (AUF) announced plans to review the footage before taking any further action, while CONMEBOL condemned the violence. Uruguay, having lost the match 1-0, will compete against Canada in the third-place playoff, as Colombia faces Argentina in the final. Suarez and other players emphasized the need for improved security to ensure the safety of their loved ones, stressing the instinctive reaction to defend their families in such chaotic situations.