Liverpool striker Darwin Núñez found himself in a tense confrontation with spectators after Uruguay’s loss to Colombia on Wednesday evening. The incident took place following the Copa America semi-final at the Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Uruguayan outlet El Pais reported that turmoil erupted near the area where the players’ friends and family were seated. Núñez was seen scaling the railings and entering the crowded stands, where he physically confronted Colombia supporters. TV cameras and spectators captured these moments, showing Núñez being restrained by others as he approached the fans.
Uruguay’s captain, José María Giménez, explained that the players felt the need to defend their families due to the absence of police presence. He described the situation in the stands as a “disaster” and attributed the disorder to a few individuals who had consumed too much alcohol and lost control.
Following the altercation, Núñez was observed hugging his son on the pitch. He has not yet issued a public statement regarding the incident. Other Uruguay players were reportedly involved in the fray as well.
South American football’s governing body, Conmebol, condemned the violence, stating that there is no place for intolerance and aggression in football, both on and off the field.
The incident occurred after Uruguay’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Colombia, which ended their chances of reaching the Copa America final. Before the crowd trouble began, players and coaching staff had already clashed on the pitch at the match’s conclusion. Núñez, who had started the game and made four attempts on goal, was unable to score.
Since joining Liverpool from Benfica for an initial £64 million in June 2022, Núñez has scored 20 goals in 65 appearances.
Colombia will face Argentina in the final on Monday.
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