Independiente Disqualified from Copa Sudamericana After Violent Brawl
Learn about the latest developments in the Copa Sudamericana controversy involving Independiente and Universidad de Chile.
Argentine club Independiente has been disqualified from the 2025 Copa Sudamericana competition by Conmebol, South American football's governing body, due to a violent stadium brawl during a match against Universidad de Chile last month. The brawl led to severe consequences, including Independiente playing their next 14 matches in Conmebol tournaments without fans, split evenly between home and away games.
A violent brawl broke out during the Copa Sudamericana match between Independiente and Universidad de Chile at Libertadores de America stadium in Buenos Aires on August 20. Nineteen people were injured as fans threw knives, sticks and stun grenades, forcing the game to be suspended in the 48th minute with the score tied at 1-1. The match was eventually called off.
Financial Penalty
Independiente will also face a significant financial penalty, paying a $250,000 fine. This decision sends a strong message about stadium violence and emphasizes the importance of maintaining order and security during matches. Both teams involved in the brawl received substantial fines, with Universidad de Chile fined $270,000 and also banned from having fans attend their next 14 international matches.
— C. A. Independiente (@Independiente) September 5, 2025
Impact on the Tournament
Uiversidad de Chile will advance to the quarterfinals, where they'll face Alianza Lima of Peru. The decision to disqualify Independiente can be appealed, but for now, it's a significant blow to the Argentine club's international ambitions. This incident highlights Conmebol's commitment to enforcing strict sanctions to prevent future violence and ensure a safe environment for players and fans.
Sanctions and Consequences
Universidad de Chile's at fault: The club was fined $270,000 and banned from having fans at its next 14 international matches.
Independiente's punishment: The Argentine side was disqualified from the Copa Sudamericana, fined $250,000, and ordered to play its next 14 matches in Conmebol tournaments without fans.
Aftermath and Reaction
The disqualification of Independiente has been seen as a strong message on stadium violence, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino demanding “exemplary sanctions.” Chilean President Gabriel Boric accused Independiente fans of “lynching” their rivals. Universidad de Chile's president welcomed the ruling, saying “justice” had prevailed.
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