COPA America Releases Statement On Brawl At BOA Stadium

VIDEO COURTESY: Ashe Hamrick

The Latest:

COPA America releases a statement saying it strongly condemns any act of violence that affects the game after a brawl between players and fans broke out in the stands following the soccer match.

CONMEBOL strongly condemns any act of violence that affects football.

Our work is based on the conviction that football connects and unites us through its positive values.

There is no place for intolerance and violence on and off the field.

We invite everyone in the remaining days to pour all their passion into cheering for their teams and having an unforgettable party.

Original Story:

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Darwin Núñez and about a dozen Uruguay teammates went into the stands as fans brawled at Bank of America Stadium following a 1-0 loss to Colombia in a Copa America semifinal on Wednesday night.

After a physical and contentious match, a melee broke out behind the Uruguay bench after Mexican referee César Ramos’ final whistle.

The crowd of 70,644 was about 90% in favor in Colombia, but a small patch of Uruguay fans fought with Colombia supporters as beverages were thrown.

Núñez and teammates then climbed a staircase into the crowd. A video showed Núñez hitting a fan in Colombian team colors.

It took more than 10 minutes for police to restore order. The public address announcer asked for fans to leave the stadium, but several supporters remained.

About 100 Uruguayan fans and and members of the federation staff remained on the field more than 20 minutes after the game, while Colombia fans made their way out to celebrate.