A Copa Sudamericana match in Buenos Aires between Argentina’s Independiente and Chile’s Universidad de Chile descended into chaos on Wednesday night, leaving 19 people injured and more than 100 arrested.
How the Violence Started
The violence erupted at halftime when Chilean fans reportedly threw stones, bottles, and even a stun grenade at home supporters. In retaliation, Independiente fans stormed the visitors’ section, attacking and stripping those who could not escape.
The game, tied 1-1, was suspended in the 48th minute and later abandoned.
Casualties and Arrests
According to Chile’s Consul General in Buenos Aires, 98 people remained in custody by Thursday evening. Nineteen Chileans were hospitalized, including one with stab wounds. Argentine media reported three serious head injuries, with one Universidad fan surviving a leap from the upper stands to escape attackers.
Chilean President Gabriel Boric condemned the incident as an “unacceptable lynching” and sent officials to support the injured.
Reactions and Blame
- Independiente officials accused Chilean fans of vandalism, including ripping out toilets and throwing them into the stands.
- Chilean officials blamed Argentine organizers and police for failing to prevent the violence.
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino called the attacks “barbaric” and demanded strict sanctions.
- CONMEBOL promised firm action, with punishments possibly ranging from fines to disqualification.
Growing Concern Over Fan Violence
This is not the first case of extreme violence in South American football. Earlier in April, two fans died in Santiago before a Copa Libertadores game. Universidad de Chile president Michael Clark said it was a “miracle no one is dead” after Wednesday’s riot.
With tensions high, authorities and football bodies face renewed pressure to curb hooliganism and improve match security.
