CONMEBOL opens investigation for 'unacceptable' brawl after Colombia vs Uruguay Copa America semifinal

CONMEBOL has opened an investigation into the ugly brawl that took place after the Copa America 2024 second semifinal match between Colombia and Uruguay on Thursday (Jul11), at theBank of America Stadium, North Carolina. Post the match, Striker Darwin Nunezwas among the Uruguay players, also involving Ronald Araujo and Jose Maria Gimenez,who were seen punching fans in the stands. Some Colombian fans were seen hurling caps, cans, and punches at the Uruguay players when they were walkingtowards the changing room after a disappointing 1-0 loss.

The incident escalated when Nunez entered the stand and threw punches at some fans before also being joined by his two teammates. Thus, the security officials jumped in and had to intervene the two sides. Reportedly, someColombian fans were abusing the families of the players.

'No action will be tolerated that tarnishes this global football celebration'

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Now, CONMEBOL has reacted to the entire episode and said in a statement on Thursday, "CONMEBOL has opened an investigation to understand the sequence of events and the responsibilities of those involved in the acts of violence that occurred at the end of the match."

"We want to reaffirm and warn that no action will be tolerated that tarnishes this global football celebration. It is unacceptable that an incident like this turns passion into violence. Therefore, no behaviour that harms the sporting competition will be tolerated."

Talking about the semifinal, Colombia edged past Uruguay courtesy ofJefferson Lerma's strike and will now meet the Lionel Messi-led Argentina, who are the defending champions, in the marquee finale on Monday (Jul15).