Independiente Disqualified from Copa Sudamericana After Fan Clashes

Santiago, Sep 5 (AP) Argentine club Independiente has faced disqualification from the Copa Sudamericana due to violent clashes by fans during a match against Universidad de Chile last month, according to South American soccer's governing body.

During the match held on August 20 at the Libertadores de América stadium in Avellaneda, Buenos Aires, more than 100 individuals were arrested and around 20 were injured.

Following the consequences of the incident, regional soccer authorities announced the progression of Universidad de Chile to the quarterfinals of the continental competition, where they will face Alianza de Lima of Peru.

CONMEBOL stated on Thursday that Club Atlético Independiente is disqualified from this year's Copa Sudamericana but not from future tournaments.

The club has been fined $250,000 and will play their next seven home games without any supporters in attendance.

Universidad de Chile must also play seven games behind closed doors and has been fined $270,000.

According to Argentine police, the conflict started when fans in the upper stands tore seats and hurled objects towards fans located below.

The game was halted at halftime with a 1-1 score as rival fans continued throwing projectiles.

As Universidad supporters began to leave, hooded Independiente fans breached barriers to invade the visitors' section, attacking with sticks and metal bars.

Thankfully, all injured fans have been released from the hospital. (AP) PDS PDS

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