A soccer match between an Argentine club, Independiente, and a Chilean team, Universidad de Chile, was canceled on Wednesday night after violence erupted in the stands near Buenos Aires. The game was part of the Copa Sudamericana regional tournament and was tied 1-1 when it was cut off.
Violence broke out at the Estadio Libertadores de América stadium, leaving some fans hospitalized or detained by local authorities. Images from the scene showed people being chased, beaten, and throwing rocks as groups sought safety across the bleachers.
President Gabriel Boric of Chile condemned the violence, stating that his citizens had been attacked and were receiving medical attention. He instructed his interior minister to travel to Argentina to investigate the incident.
Chilean authorities have detained at least 90 people in connection with the game, while Independiente’s club president blames the violence on Universidad de Chile. The situation has raised concerns about fan safety and security measures in Argentina.
The Copa Sudamericana is a significant tournament in South America, with the winner qualifying for the top-tier Copa Libertadores and the right to be called South America’s best club. The incident highlights the need for improved security guarantees and crowd control measures at soccer stadiums.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/21/world/americas/argentina-chile-soccer-violence.html