Violence erupts in South American match, prompting strong response from FIFA president Infantino
On Wednesday night, shocking footage of violence emerged during the second leg of the Copa Sudamericana round of 16 between Independiente and Universidad de Chile, ultimately forcing the match to be called off. The incident drew reactions from across the soccer world, including a strong statement from FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Viewer discretion is advised.
Two minutes into the second half, with the match tied 1-1 (and Universidad de Chile leading 2-1 on aggregate), referee Gustavo Tejera was forced to halt the game due to disturbances in the stands.
Some Universidad de Chile fans had been throwing objects — including coins, bathroom fixtures, and stones — toward the section below, where local supporters were seated. Several individuals were injured, which in turn sparked a violent response from a group of Independiente fans who moved toward the opposing supporters’ area.
Although most of the Universidad de Chile contingent had already exited the stadium, a violent clash broke out in the nearly empty stand between the few remaining visiting fans and the group of Independiente supporters who had moved in to confront them. The result was numerous injuries and graphic scenes that quickly spread worldwide.
According to La Nacion, initial reports registered nearly 200 people injured, including at least five children. Close to ten of the injured were in serious condition and had to be transported to nearby hospitals. In addition, over 100 individuals were detained by local police.
Gianni Infantino’s statement
On Thursday morning, the FIFA president issued a statement on his official Instagram account condemning the events that took place in Argentina. “I strongly condemn the shocking violence which led to the cancellation of the Copa Sudamericana last-16 second-leg match between Independiente and Universidad de Chile in Buenos Aires,” the message began.
“Violence has no place in soccer — players, fans, staff, officials and everyone who enjoys our beautiful game should be able to do so without fear,” Infantino continued. “From everyone at FIFA, our thoughts are with all the innocent victims impacted and we expect the relevant authorities to hold those responsible for these barbaric acts to account.”
What happens next for Independiente and Universidad de Chile?
Hours after the match was suspended, and given the severity of the incidents at the stadium, CONMEBOL (the governing body for soccer in South America) announced the match was officially canceled. “The case will be referred to CONMEBOL’s Judicial Bodies for future determinations,” the statement added.
In the coming hours, officials from Independiente and Universidad de Chile are expected to travel to CONMEBOL’s headquarters in Paraguay to discuss the events. However, beyond the match’s cancellation and any decision regarding the final result, heavy sanctions are anticipated for both clubs.