During a tense Copa Colombia final on Sunday, a football hooligan was caught on camera firing a fireworks cannon at police officers as violence erupted in the stands, forcing the match to be abandoned in the 84th minute.
Atlético Nacional and América de Cali were facing off in the decisive second leg of the tournament at Cali’s Pascual Guerrero Olympic Stadium when chaos broke out, with hundreds of fans attempting to storm the pitch.
Amid the mayhem, one América supporter brandished a fireworks launcher like a machine gun, unleashing a relentless barrage of rockets at riot police, who scrambled for protection behind their shields.
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The shocking scene unfolded as officers clashed with fans attempting to breach the field, intensifying tensions inside the packed 37,000-capacity stadium.
The high-stakes match was tied 0-0 at the time, with Atlético Nacional holding a 3-1 aggregate lead after their victory in the first leg.
However, the escalating violence left officials with no choice but to halt the game, cutting it short before the full 90 minutes.
Despite Atlético Nacional securing their seventh Copa Colombia title, celebrations were subdued as players were unable to remain on the field or collect the trophy in front of fans.
Referee José Ortiz’s decision to abandon the match triggered the rapid evacuation of the stadium, but the violence spilled over into the surrounding streets.
Reports emerged of multiple disturbances outside the venue, resulting in injuries among several fans.
Police spokesperson Carlos Oviedo addressed the incident, explaining: “Some members of the América de Cali fanbase tried to violently invade the stadium’s pitch.
Officers from the Dialogue and Order Maintenance Unit jumped into action and prevented them from reaching the field.
As a result, a confrontation occurred.”
Oviedo confirmed that three police officers sustained injuries during the clashes and were receiving treatment at a nearby medical centre.
He also criticised the failure of certain fan groups to adhere to prior agreements aimed at ensuring a peaceful event.
“The Colombian Football Federation received a commitment from the leaders of these groups that this sporting event would take place in peace and harmony, but unfortunately this was not fulfilled,” he added.
Authorities have since launched an investigation to identify the key figures responsible for inciting the violence.
The incident marks a troubling reminder of the persistent issues surrounding fan behaviour in Colombian football, overshadowing what was meant to be a showcase of the country’s sporting talent.
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SOURCE: Football hooligan shoots at cops with firework cannon during major final
