CONMEBOL have begun a disciplinary investigation into the clash which erupted after the game between Uruguay and Colombia.
In what was described as “acts of violence” and “unnacceptable” scenes by the Copa América organisers, Uruguay striker Darwin Nunez was part of a set of players who drifted into the stands an exchanged punches with supporters at the Bank of America Stadium.
Uruguay central defender Jose Maria Gimenez said players moved into the scene due to concerns for the safety of loved ones and family members watching the game in that area of the stadium.
Uruguay are set to lock horns with Canada at the same ground in a third place game on Saturday and it remains up for question if any of their players will be suspended for the game.
“In light of the acts of violence that occurred at the end of the match between the national teams of Uruguay and Colombia, the Disciplinary Unit of CONMEBOL has decided to open an investigation to clarify the sequence of events and the responsibilities of those involved,” the South American football governing body said.
CONMEBOL also stated they would not welcome any repeat of the scenario, which saw fighting between the two sets of supporters, for Sunday’s final between Argentina and Colombia.
“On the eve of our Copa America final, we want to reaffirm and warn that no action that tarnishes a global football celebration will be tolerated, involving both the protagonists and the fans present in the stadium for a final viewed by hundreds of millions of spectators worldwide.
“It is unacceptable that an incident like this turns passion into violence. Therefore, no behaviour that violates the spirit of the sport and the world’s most beautiful spectacle, which belongs to the whole family, will be tolerated,” they added.
Coupled with the incidents in the stands, there were also clashes on the field at the final whistle involving players from both teams.
