Rival Fans Clash at Colombia Cup Final; 59 Injured in Medellín
Severe clashes between opposing football fans leave 59 injured at the Colombia Cup final in Medellín, prompting police action, stadium damage assessments, and calls for tighter security at future derbies.
Rival fans clashed after the Colombia Cup final in Medellín, leaving 59 people injured. Security forces intervened as supporters invaded the pitch following Atlético Nacional's 1-0 victory over city rivals Deportivo Independiente Medellín in the second leg.
What happened
Violence erupted at the Atanasio Girardot Stadium after the final whistle, with some fans lighting flares and fireworks. Riot police were deployed to restore order. Seven police officers were among those injured.
Damage and delays
Local reports described extensive damage to the stadium, including damaged seats and turnstiles and sections of the turf burned. The match had been delayed by about 14 minutes earlier in the evening due to pyrotechnics causing reduced visibility in the stands.
Officials' response
Medellín Mayor Federico Gutierrez condemned the actions, calling the perpetrators “misfits who only seek to generate violence” and warning that those involved would face legal consequences. “Anyone who came to the stadium to attack, destroy or incite fear will be held accountable under the law,” he said, adding that Medellín has long been a beacon of peaceful football in Colombia and Latin America.
Police commander William Castaño told Teleantioquia that officers had seized weapons, flares and fireworks from spectators, including “more than 120 kg of pyrotechnic material.” He said officers used graduated force to prevent the crowd from occupying the pitch and to restore public order and safety.
Manuel Villa, Medellín’s security secretary, said: “Security did not fail; what failed was the behavior of those who chose violence.” He noted authorities had allowed fans from both clubs to attend the derby to promote peace in football.
Context
In Colombia, away supporters are usually barred from major matches to reduce violence. In this derby, authorities had allowed both sides to attend to foster a message of peaceful football.
Expert comment
A security expert notes that high-profile matches like this require clear crowd-control rules, swift intervention, and ongoing communication with fans to prevent escalation.
Summary
The incident highlights the ongoing challenge of keeping football safe when passions run high. Investigations are underway, and officials promise accountability for those involved. The focus remains on protecting fans while preserving the safety and spirit of future derbies.
Key insight: Allowing crowds at derbies to promote peace must be matched with strict security measures; without them, violence can disrupt the sport. BBC Sport
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