Avellaneda Stadium Violence Leaves Dozens Injured and Match Cancelled by Conmebol

Severe unrest broke out in the stands of the Libertadores de América stadium in Avellaneda during the Copa Sudamericana round of 16 match between Independiente and Universidad de Chile. The violence, which saw rival fans throwing stones and makeshift weapons, left at least 10 people seriously injured, around 90 detained, and forced the suspension of the match.

Uruguayan referee Gustavo Tejera halted play in the 48th minute with the score tied at 1-1. Shortly afterwards, Conmebol issued a statement confirming that the game had been cancelled due to a lack of security guarantees from both the host club and local authorities.

How the Incidents Began

The disturbances began late in the first half when visiting supporters in the Bochini Alta stand started hurling seats and chunks of concrete onto home fans below. Other objects used in the clashes included paving stones, wooden sticks, masonry, and even entire toilets.

Following a delayed police response, visiting supporters were ordered to leave the section. However, when about 30 remained inside, Independiente fans entered the area, sparking violent confrontations. In desperation, some Chilean fans jumped from dangerous heights to escape the attacks.

Independiente sources told EFE that at least 10 people were injured and 90 detained. Police also held roughly 300 Universidad de Chile supporters for checks. Officials said three of the injured are in critical condition, including one Chilean fan taken to hospital in serious state.

Conmebol announced that the case would be referred to its Judicial Bodies and all evidence forwarded to its Disciplinary Commission.

Chile’s President Condemns the Violence

Chilean President Gabriel Boric strongly condemned the clashes, calling Conmebol’s handling of the match «irresponsible». In a statement on social media, he confirmed that Chile’s foreign ministry is working to ensure the safe return of players and fans, while also demanding immediate medical care for the injured and due process for those detained.

«What happened in Avellaneda is wrong on so many levels, from the violence itself to the obvious failures in organisation. The courts must establish responsibility,» Boric said.

He added that the government’s priority is to check on the condition of injured compatriots, secure their treatment, and safeguard the rights of those held by police. Chile’s ambassador to Argentina, José Antonio Viera Gallo, has been instructed to personally visit both the police station where fans are detained and the hospital treating the injured.

Kursiv also reports that Marseille have confirmed that Adrien Rabiot and Jonathan Rowe have been placed on the transfer list following what the club described as «unacceptable behaviour» in the dressing room.