Big tragedy in South America

The Copa Sudamericana clash between Independiente and Universidad de Chile on August 20, 2025, ended in tragedy after violent riots inside the stadium forced the match to be abandoned and later officially canceled by Conmebol.

The game was tied 1-1 at the time of suspension, with Assadi scoring for the Chilean side and Montiel equalizing for the hosts. Despite the result, Universidad de Chile advanced 2-1 on aggregate. However, the football quickly became secondary as chaos erupted in the stands.

Witnesses described scenes of extreme violence, including chairs, sticks, and explosives being thrown, as well as parts of the stands being set on fire. A group of Independiente supporters broke into the away section, where they launched physical assaults on visiting fans. Reports from both Chilean and Argentine outlets indicate incidents of forced undressing and even sexual assaults.

The aftermath is devastating: three people have been confirmed dead, including, according to some unofficial local reports, a child. At least one individual remains in critical condition, while hundreds suffered injuries. Police made more than 300 arrests in connection with the riots. Conmebol has canceled the match and announced that disciplinary proceedings have been opened.

Authorities from both countries are investigating the tragedy, while condolences have poured in for the victims and their families.

Another report:

"Match abandoned due to riots in the stands. Apparently, Universidad de Chile supporters provoked the Argentinian fans by throwing objects and pyro into the home tribunes below and next to the away stand, which made Independiente fans rush over and gain access to the away block where a big fight began. Most of the fight between both sets of fans happened under the tribune and is not visible in the videos, but what is seen is up inside the away stand when Independiente supporters made it through with still some Chile fans there, who were badly beaten, their flags and clothes taken. One Chile fan is seen either trying to escape or being pushed from the tribune from a big height. His condition is unknown, but what is known is that there are over 100 detained so far and many injured, with a few in critical condition."