Uruguay players, including Darwin Nunez, ventured into the stands at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte following reports of violence erupting near the players’ family section.
Video footage showed Nunez climbing railings to confront Colombia fans while teammates attempted to restrain him.
Sky Sports News reports that Liverpool will contact the Uruguayan Federation to clarify the incident’s details. The club plans to offer support to Nunez and his family for their well-being.
Uruguay players stated they entered the stands to protect their families.
Luis Suarez commented, “When someone attacks your family, your instinct is to defend them, but that doesn’t justify the situation that unfolded. Many families and children of my teammates were there. They were in danger and needed help.”
Uruguay defender Jose Gimenez told FOX Soccer, “A section of Colombia fans stormed our families. It was chaotic. Our families were in danger.”
CONMEBOL issued a statement condemning any violence affecting the game, emphasizing soccer’s role in fostering unity and positive values.
“Our work is based on the belief that soccer unites us through its positive values,” the statement read. “There is no place for intolerance and violence, whether on the field or off it. We encourage everyone to channel their passion into supporting their national teams and creating memorable moments.”
Despite playing the second half with 10 men after Dani Munoz’s first-half red card, Colombia secured a 1-0 victory over Uruguay, courtesy of Jefferson Lerma’s goal. They advance to face Argentina in the final on Monday.
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